WHITE FECES DISEASE IN SHRIMP: EFFECTIVE TREATMENT AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES
White feces disease in shrimp has long been considered a “nightmare” for white-leg shrimp and black tiger shrimp farmers.
The disease often breaks out during hot seasons or transitional weather when water temperature rises.
If not treated promptly, it can cause shrimp to stop feeding, grow slowly, and lead to serious economic losses.
1. Main underlying causes of white feces disease in shrimp
Understanding the root cause is the most important step in developing an effective treatment plan. There are three main groups of causes:
Vibrio bacteria and parasites
The most direct cause is Vibrio bacteria, which attack and destroy the intestinal epithelial cells.
In addition, the parasite Gregarine is also a major threat.
They attach to the intestinal wall, absorb nutrients, and create lesions, making the disease more severe.
Toxic algae and poor pond environment
In polluted ponds, blue-green algae and dinoflagellates can grow excessively and release toxins.
When shrimp consume these algae, their digestive system becomes paralyzed and the intestinal lining is damaged, allowing harmful bacteria to invade.
Poor-quality feed
Moldy feed containing aflatoxins can cause serious damage to the hepatopancreas and intestinal tract of shrimp.
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2. Early signs of white feces disease in shrimp
Detecting the disease during the “golden stage” (first 2–3 days) can help save up to 90% of production.
Observation of feces and pond surface
The typical sign is white fecal strings floating on the water surface, often concentrated in downwind areas or pond corners.
On feeding trays, shrimp feces appear white or light yellow instead of normal dark brown.
Physical symptoms in shrimp
Infected shrimp often have soft shells and weak flesh.
The hepatopancreas appears pale and shrunken.
The intestine is often empty or shows clear segment breaks.
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3. Effective treatment protocol for white feces disease
When infection signs are detected, farmers should immediately follow a 3-step protocol: Clean – Control – Recover.
Step 1: Environmental treatment and stress reduction
Reduce feeding: Cut feed by 50% or stop feeding for 1–2 days.
Disinfection: Use broad-spectrum disinfectants to reduce Vibrio bacteria in the pond.
Increase oxygen: Run aerators at maximum capacity, maintaining dissolved oxygen above 5 mg/L.
Step 2: Treatment and probiotics
Prefer herbal treatments instead of high-dose antibiotics to avoid stunted growth.
Supplement gut-support products combined with organic acids to suppress harmful bacteria, clean the intestines, and help shrimp restore normal feces quickly.
Step 3: Hepatopancreas and digestive recovery
After controlling the outbreak, add high-dose probiotics and multivitamins to stimulate feeding.
This is a critical stage for restoring lost nutrients and regaining growth momentum.
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4. Long-term prevention of white feces disease in shrimp
“Prevention is better than cure” is the key principle in sustainable aquaculture.
Water quality management: Monitor pH, alkalinity, NH₃, NO₂, and control excessive algae growth.
Regular probiotic application: Maintain beneficial microbial balance and suppress harmful bacteria.
Early shrimp health management: Strengthen immunity from the stocking stage.
Conclusion
Although white feces disease is a major challenge, careful monitoring and proper technical application can effectively control and eliminate outbreaks.
Wishing farmers a successful and profitable shrimp farming season.
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