Work

Regional Prevalence and Molecular Detection of Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei in Coastal Shellfish from Korea

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: EHP causes hepatopancreatic microsporidiosis in shrimp, leading to growth retardation without notable mortality. To examine potential environmental carriers, farmed bivalves were collected near shrimp ponds in Korea and screened for EHP using nested PCR targeting the spore-wall-protein gene. DNA of EHP was mainly detected in gill and digestive tissues of oysters, scallops, mussels, and clams. Histopathology after 24 h immersion exposure confirmed spores within the intestinal epithelium of clams, indicating short-term invasion potential. These results suggest that bivalves can retain and mechanically transfer EHP spores through shared seawater between shrimp farms and surrounding areas. Considering the environmental persistence of EHP, continuous surveillance of local invertebrates is recommended to reduce the risk of EHP introduction and further spread in aquaculture systems.

Source: Animals

DOI: 10.3390/ani15223356

Authors: Beom Hee Lee, Eul Bit Noh, Hee Jung Choi, Mun Gyeong Kwon, Bo Seong Kim

Institution: Kunsan National University

Language: English

Topic: Parasitic Infections and Diagnostics

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Life below water, Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896