Haliphthoros sp. (Fungus Disease) of Lobsters
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Category
Category 4 (Negligible Regulatory Significance in Canada)
Common, generally accepted names of the organism or disease agent
Haliphthoros fungus disease of lobsters.
Scientific name or taxonomic affiliation
Phycomycetous fungus Haliphthoros milfordensis.
Geographic distribution
East and West Coast of United States and is probably ubiquitous.
Host species
Post-larvae of Homarus americanus and Homarus gammarus (=vulgaris) and adult Artemia salina (brine shrimp).
Impact on the host
Infiltration of the exoskeleton by mycelia causing extensive damage, with defensive melanisation. Adhesion of integuments inhibits successful moulting. Secondary infections. High mortality rate.
Diagnostic techniques
Gross Observations
Red-brown melanisation at or near base of legs, in the gills, branchial chamber, other soft parts.
Histology
Mycelia in sections of melanised areas, gills and possibly in hepatopancreas.
Culture
Culture on marine mycological agar.
Methods of control
Careful cleaning and maintenance of rearing systems will help control this husbandry-related disease.
References
Brock, J.A. and D.V. Lightner. 1990. Diseases of Crustacea. Diseases caused by microorganisms. In: O. Kinne, (ed.). Diseases of Marine Animals. Volume III: Introduction, Cephalopoda, Annelida, Crustacea, Chaetognatha, Echinodermata, Urochordata. Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Hamburg, p. 335-337.
Fisher, W.S. 1988. Fungus (Haliphthoros) disease of lobsters. In: C.J. Sindermann and D.V. Lightner (eds.). Disease Diagnosis and Control in North American Aquaculture. Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science 17. Elsevier, Amsterdam, p. 251-254.
Citation Information
Bower, S.M., McGladdery, S.E., Price, I.M. (1994): Synopsis of Infectious Diseases and Parasites of Commercially Exploited Shellfish: Haliphthoros sp. (Fungus Disease) of Lobsters.
Date last revised: Fall 1994
Comments to Susan Bower
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