White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) in two species of freshwater crabs (Paratelphusa hydrodomous and P-pulvinata)

The susceptibility of two species of freshwater crabs, Paratelphusa hydrodomous and 'P. pulvinata to white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) was tested by oral route and intramuscular injection. The results revealed that these freshwater crabs were as highly susceptible as marine shrimp. WSSV caused 100% mortality in both P. pulvinata and P. hydrodomous, at 60 and 84 h, respectively, after intramuscular injection. It also caused 100% mortality when given orally. The presence of WSSV in the moribund crabs was confirmed by PCR and histological analysis. It was found in gill, heart tissue, eyestalk, abdominal muscle and hemolymph. (C)2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.