Biochemical responses in penaeids caused by contaminants

The shrimp aquaculture industry has become increasingly aware of the need for developing sensitive and precise diagnostic tools (Biomarkers) with predictive capability for assessing the toxic effect of commonly encountered chemicals on shrimp culture. Potentially damaging compounds used in shrimp culture include disinfectants, therapeutics, feed additives, algicidals, pesticides, and fertilizers. These chemicals may cause biological damage at all life stages during shrimp production. Since many chemicals may be stressors to the organisms, lower production rates may occur, compromising the sustainability of the shrimp production. This manuscript gives a brief overview about toxic effects associated with the chemicals used directly or indirectly during shrimp production. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.