Acipenserid herpesvirus 1

Acipenserid herpesvirus 1 (AciHV-1) is a member of the Herpesviridae family, specifically classified under the genus Ictalurivirus. This virus is known to infect sturgeon species, which are part of the family Acipenseridae. AciHV-1 is of particular interest due to its impact on aquaculture and wild sturgeon populations.

Virology

AciHV-1 is a double-stranded DNA virus, characteristic of the Herpesviridae family. The virus has a large genome and is enveloped, which is typical of herpesviruses. The viral particles are spherical and have an icosahedral capsid structure.

The virus primarily targets sturgeon species, causing disease outbreaks that can lead to significant mortality rates in affected populations. The clinical signs of infection include lethargy, skin lesions, and hemorrhaging. The virus is transmitted through water and direct contact between infected and healthy fish.

Epidemiology

Outbreaks of AciHV-1 have been reported in various regions where sturgeon are found, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The virus poses a threat to both farmed and wild sturgeon populations, which are already under pressure from overfishing and habitat loss.

The spread of AciHV-1 is facilitated by the movement of infected fish and water currents. Control measures include quarantine of infected populations and improved biosecurity practices in aquaculture facilities.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of AciHV-1 infection is typically performed using molecular techniques such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect viral DNA in tissue samples. Histopathological examination of infected tissues can also reveal characteristic lesions associated with the virus.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for AciHV-1 infection. Management strategies focus on prevention through biosecurity measures and the development of vaccines to protect susceptible sturgeon populations.

Conservation Implications

Sturgeon species are considered vulnerable or endangered due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. The additional threat posed by AciHV-1 complicates conservation efforts. Effective management of the virus is crucial to the survival of these ancient fish species.

Also see

• Herpesviridae
• Ictalurivirus
• Sturgeon
• Aquaculture
• Fish diseases