Black gill disease

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


Black gill disease is a disease of crustaceans.

Occurrence[edit | edit source]

It has been observed in spiny lobsters (Panulirus ornatus) in Vietnam,[1] where it is caused by a species of Fusarium.[1]

It has been observed in shrimp, where the agent is microscopic protozoan Hyalophysa chattoni or a close relative, in Galveston Bay, Texas and other locations.[2]

Causes[edit | edit source]

There are multiple sources known to cause black gill disease. Poor pond conditions can cause debris to build up in the gills turning them black. Certain kinds of bacteria and the fungus genus Fusarium are also known causes. [citation needed]


Prevention[edit | edit source]

With extra care taken to the health of the shrimp, it is possible to prevent cases of black gill disease. The water should have 10-20 parts per thousand parts salinity and filtered.[3]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 V. V. H. Nha, D.T. and L.V. Khoa (2009). "Black gill disease of cage-cultured ornate rock lobster Panulirus ornatus in central Vietnam caused by Fusarium species." Aquatic animal health 15(4): 35-37.
  2. ASEAN (1978). "Manuel on Pond Culture of Penaeid Shrimp". FAO Corporate Document Repository. Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Retrieved 28 April 2016.


Black gill disease Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD