Epibionts of ornamental freshwater shrimps bred in Taiwan

Epibionts of ornamental freshwater shrimps bred in Taiwan. One of the major problems in breeding Neocaridina davidi in Taiwa nese aquaculture ponds are epibionts found on the body of ornamental shrimp. These organisms affect shrimp wellbeing by causing distress which leads directly to shrimp weakness, loss of colour and even casualties. They can also be observed in imported shrimps which put in danger individuals bred in Europe, mostly characterised by high level of inbreeding and sensitivity to pathogens. Microscopic analyses indicated presence of six fresh water shrimp epibionts. Some of them showing parasitic lifestyle (Cladogonium ogishimae, Saprolegnia sp., Scutariella japonica), others (phyla Ciliophora and Rotifera) may indicate level of organic matter in water. To allow an effective treatment and control of the spread of parasites, all of their preferred locations on shrimp body observer in this study should be checked and become a vital part of diagnostic methods. Researches on ornamental freshwater shrimps’ epibionts are important to achieve success in shrimp breeding as well as to effectively monitor epibiont populations globally, especially that in some regions they may become potentially invasive organisms to the native crustaceans.