White Spot Syndrome Virus
White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects shrimp, particularly Penaeus vannamei and Penaeus monodon. It causes significant economic losses in the shrimp farming industry due to high mortality rates, often exceeding 90% in infected populations. The virus is characterized by white spots on the exoskeleton of affected shrimp, which is where it gets its name.
WSSV is transmitted through direct contact and contaminated water, making it a serious threat to aquaculture. Prevention measures include maintaining biosecurity protocols, monitoring shrimp health, and using specific pathogen-free (SPF) stock to reduce the risk of infection.