Vibriosis control in Vannamei Shrimp: Intestinal and mangrove-derived bacteriophages

¹ Biotechnology Development Center, University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Malang, East Java, 65144, Indonesia
² Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Science, University of Muhammadiyah Malang, 65144 East Java, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: soniandriawan1992@gmail.com

Abstract

Vibriosis, caused by various Vibrio species, poses a significant challenge in the aquaculture of Litopenaeus vannamei. Bacteriophages present a promising biocontrol option due to their ability to specifically target and kill bacteria without harmful side effects. This study evaluates the effectiveness of bacteriophages isolated from shrimp intestines and mangrove sediment in controlling Vibrio infections in L. vannamei. Using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatment groups and four replications, including control, pathogen-exposed, and various phage treatments, the research found that purified bacteriophages, especially those from shrimp intestines (26 × 10⁹ PFU/mL), significantly inhibited bacterial growth in vitro. In vivo, phage-treated shrimp showed improved immune responses and higher survival rates than controls. Although total hemocyte counts remained unchanged, increased phagocytic activity suggests that phage therapy could be an effective and sustainable method for managing Vibrio infections in shrimp farming.