White spot disease (WSD) is an internationally notifiable disease of crustaceans caused by White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV). On 22nd November 2016 a WSSV incursion was first reported in Black Tiger Prawns (Penaeus monodon) grown on a prawn farm taking water from the Logan River, SE QLD.
In November 2017, the FRDC ran a White Spot Disease R&D Needs Workshop. The report can be found here.
In response to the WSD outbreak FRDC implemented the following projects to support the prawn farming and wild catch sector and provide clear direction towards planning for future recovery for affected farms and fisheries; and protecting the biosecurity of areas away from the Logan River control zone.
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2016-064
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Status – Completed. |
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2016-066 |
Status – Completed, including supplementary report |
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2016-266 |
Prawn White Spot Disease Response Plan. Status – Completed. |
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2016-267 |
Economic Impact of 2016 White Spot Disease Outbreak - summary overview Status – Near completion. Near final data based upon information provided by affected farmers and fishers provided to Ridge Partners. |
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2016-172 |
Collation of white spot syndrome virus testing from wild-caught re-imported prawns Status – Completed |
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2016-141 |
Status – Commenced. |
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2012-030 |
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2011-259 |
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2011-048 |
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2003-671 |
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2003-640 |
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2002-660 |
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2002-647 |
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1975-003 |
In response to the WSD outbreak FRDC implemented the following projects to support the prawn farming and wild catch sector and provide clear direction towards planning
for future recovery for affected farms and fisheries. In addition to this research a consumer market research study was initiated to provide an estimate of the likely ‘reach’ and ’impact’ of this issue. The research was conducted with a representative sample of the Australian population aged 18+.
It is likely that FRDC will need to support a range of WSD R&D projects in future as immediate, medium and longer term priorities are identified through current project activities and ongoing consultation between industry, national and international aquatic disease experts and government R&D and biosecurity agencies.
White spot disease does not pose a threat to human health or food safety.
What is white spot disease?
White spot disease (WSD) is a highly contagious viral disease of decapod crustaceans including prawns, crabs, yabbies and lobsters. White spot disease is caused by white spot syndrome virus (WSSV).
Where is white spot disease found?
WSD is widespread throughout prawn farming regions in Asia and has become established in prawns farmed in the Americas where it has caused severe losses.
How is white spot disease spread?
The disease is primarily spread through the movement of infected animals or water. Birds feeding on infected animals can contribute to the spread of the disease.
Can fish spread the virus?
No. Fish are not carriers of the virus that causes WSD.
What does white spot disease look like?
Prawns with WSD may have a loose shell with numerous white spots (0.5-2.0mm in diameter) on the inside surface of the shell and a pink to red discolouration.
How to report white spot disease
It is crucial that all aquaculture operators, commercial and recreational fishers and other waterway users report unusual signs in prawns (including bait) and other crustaceans.
Early detection provides a better chance of being able to contain and eradicate this serious disease.
If you see crustaceans that you suspect have the disease it is important to take note of the location and time and report this information immediately to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
Alternatively phone the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 from anywhere in Australia.
Senate Inquiry “The biosecurity risks associated with the importation of seafood and seafood products (including uncooked prawns and uncooked prawn meat) into Australia” - http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Rural_and_Regional_Affairs_and_Transport/Seafoodimportation
Inspector-General of Biosecurity’s review of the circumstances leading to the 2017 suspension of uncooked prawn imports into Australia and the biosecurity considerations relevant to future trade in uncooked prawns - https://www.igb.gov.au/uncooked-prawn-imports-effectiveness-biosecurity-controls
Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity Review - http://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity/partnerships/nbc/intergovernmental-agreement-on-biosecurity/igabreview
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