The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has developed a technology to detect acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) or early mortality syndrome in shrimp. The technology is an output of a project funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). AHPND is caused by vibrio parahaemolyticus, a pervasive bacterium that thrives in marine waters. This disease causes lethargy, an empty stomach, a pale hepatopancreas or digestive gland and an empty midgut. The disease has caused major economic losses in cultured shrimp production in China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Mexico and the Philippines.

New technology detects early mortality sysndrome in shrimp. (2018, December 22). Manila Bulletin, p. B-5.