Whiteleg shrimp

Whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) is a species of prawn of the eastern Pacific Ocean commonly known as the Pacific white shrimp or king prawn. It is among the most commercially significant species of shrimp worldwide, particularly in the context of aquaculture.

Taxonomy

The Whiteleg shrimp is a member of the family Penaeidae, which includes other commercially important shrimp species. It was first described by the American zoologist Mary J. Rathbun in 1902. The species is named after the American biologist James Vannamei, who made significant contributions to the study of decapod crustaceans.

Description

Whiteleg shrimp are decapod crustaceans, meaning they have ten legs. They have a slender, transparent body with a white abdomen, from which they derive their common name. The species can reach a length of up to 230 millimeters, although sizes vary depending on environmental conditions and diet.

Distribution and habitat

The natural distribution of Whiteleg shrimp extends along the Pacific coast of the Americas, from Sonora, Mexico to northern Peru. They inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters, typically at depths of less than 72 meters.

Commercial significance

Whiteleg shrimp are of major economic importance in the global seafood industry. They are extensively farmed in several countries, including China, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The species is prized for its fast growth rate, disease resistance, and high market value.

Aquaculture

Whiteleg shrimp are the most widely cultured shrimp species in the world. They are typically farmed in ponds, where they are fed a diet of specially formulated pellets. The development of sustainable farming practices has been a key focus in the industry, with efforts to reduce environmental impacts and improve shrimp health and welfare.

Conservation

While Whiteleg shrimp are not currently considered threatened, they are subject to various conservation concerns. These include the impacts of overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change. Sustainable management practices are crucial to ensure the long-term viability of the species.

See also

• Shrimp farming
• Shrimp fishery
• Aquaculture of shrimp