Publication - Factsheet

Diseases of crustaceans

Published: 17 December 2019
Directorate: Marine Directorate
Topic: Marine and fisheries

Some crustacean diseases of particular significance in Scotland.

White spot disease (WSD) is caused by white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). WSSV is the only member of the genus Whispovirus within the Nimaviridae family, with a large genome of 293-307kb.

All decapod crustaceans are susceptible to the disease, however it mainly affects Penaeus monodon (farmed prawns). Clinical signs of disease can include high mortality, development of white spots on the exoskeleton, lethargy, sudden reduction in feeding, red discoloration of body and appendages and a loose carapace.

The diagnostic methods include:

Histopathology
Real-Time PCR and Sequencing

Additional information on WSD and WSSV:

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