Viruses has been long time scourge of the aquaculture industry. The presence or absence of these viruses often spells the difference between profit and loss. The White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) for shrimp, the Viral Nervous Necrosis (VNN) and Iridovirus for fishes are some of the bane of the industry. The WSSV, whose causative agent is a Baculovirus, affects various stage of shrimp development (postlarva, juvenile, adult and broodstock).

SEAFDEC/AQD now conducts molecular diagnosis for shrimp & fish diseases. (2001, December 3). Panay News, p. 16.