Invention:
This technology is an antimicrobial phytogenic supplement to therapeutically treat Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND) in shrimp. AHPND is caused by a Vibiro parahaemolyticus producing toxin and is a threat to sustainable shrimp farming globally. Plant-derived extract NE05 is effective at controlling AHPND and potentially other bacterial pathogens in shrimp, and it is the most efficacious among the natural extracts screened. NE05 is a potential candidate to develop AHPND therapeutic treatment and is delivered directly in the shrimp diet.
Background:
Shrimp is the single most popular seafood item per capita in the United States. In 2013, 1.1 billion pounds of shrimp sold in the U.S. were imported from foreign aquaculture operations, representing $5.3 billion. To satisfy the increasing demand for shrimp, intensive aquaculture systems have been developed to raise shrimp in smaller spaces. However, intensive farming with high stocking density exacerbates disease problems, despite added antibiotics intended to limit the growth of bacteria. In addition to creating poor culture conditions, these types of unsustainable systems can cause many public health problems, including harm to the environment and to workers, and the overuse of antibiotics, including those critical for human medicine. A natural, plant-derived antimicrobial agent would help stabilize the global shrimp supply and enhance the health of consumers.
Applications:
- Antimicrobial therapy for AHPND in shrimp
- Seafood aquaculture
Advantages:
- Plant-derived antimicrobial alternative to antibiotics
- Prevents overuse of antibiotic and resistant bacterial strains
