PCR-based detection of white spot syndrome virus in cultured and captured crustaceans in India

AIMS: The occurrence and distribution of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) among cultured and captured penaeid shrimps and crustaceans in the east coast of India was determined from November 1999 to April 2002 using PCR as a diagnostic tool. METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 630 cultured samples consisting of 280 postlarvae collected from nine different hatcheries and 350 juvenile shrimps (40-60-day-old) collected from 18 different culture ponds were screened for WSSV. Of these cultured samples tested 53% were found to be single-step PCR positive. A total of 419 samples of captured crustaceans viz., Penaeus monodon brooders, P. indicus juveniles, Metapenaeus spp., crab Scylla serrata and Squilla mantis were also screened for WSSV by PCR, 23% of them were infected with WSSV. CONCLUSIONS: This study concluded that WSSV could be widespread in cultured and captured shrimps and other crustaceans in India. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The results indicate that PCR screening of WSSV infection and rejection of infected stocks greatly assists shrimp aquaculture farmers for successful production and harvest.