Shrimp Aquaculture Under Viral Threats: Insights into Pathogens and Control Strategies

Viral diseases are among the most serious threats to shrimp aquaculture, causing large-scale mortality and production losses. This review summarizes current knowledge on the major viral diseases affecting cultured penaeid shrimp and freshwater prawns, with particular emphasis on white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), yellow head virus (YHV), Taura syndrome virus (TSV), infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHHNV), infectious myonecrosis virus (IMNV), and Macrobrachium rosenbergii nodavirus (MrNV), the causative agent of white tail disease. We present a comparative overview of their genomic features, transmission routes, host range, and pathogenesis. Particular attention is given to the genome organization of WSSV and TSV, including variable regions and structural genes commonly used in molecular detection and strain differentiation. We also discuss mechanisms that may contribute to viral persistence in host populations, such as vertical transmission, chronic infections, and viral integration into host genomes. Finally, the review outlines current disease management strategies, including biosecurity measures, environmental control, and selective breeding. By compiling and contextualizing virological and epidemiological data, this review serves as a reference for disease surveillance and control in shrimp aquaculture.