European perspectives on Litopenaeus vannamei aquaculture: An expert’s survey

In order to better understand Litopenaeus vannamei aquaculture practices within the burgeoning European shrimp aquaculture sector, a 17-point questionnaire was developed and distributed to industrial or scientific shrimp experts based in or affiliated with Europe. Although shrimp aquaculture is not yet widespread in Europe, 29 responses were received. Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and biofloc are the predominant production systems, often featuring alarm notifications. Daily system checks and animal health assessments are common, with records for behaviour and physical health monitoring, regardless of system type. Enrichment strategies, like artificial substrates and feeding trays, are frequently used. Exuviae management is debated and it is removed manually or automatically, although shrimps also consume them. Optimal water conditions identified include temperatures of 24–30°C, pH between 7.0 and 8.5, salinity of 15–25 ppt, and alkalinity of 51–200 mg/L CaCO₃. Nitrogen species, alkalinity, and CO₂ levels are recommended to be checked a few times a week. Neither optimal water parameters nor their check frequency correlate with the system type used. Health issues reported include antennal, uropodal, rostral, exoskeletal, muscular, and eye impairments. Gill quality seems better in RAS, while antennae and eye status may relate to stocking density. Common abnormal behaviours include swimming abnormalities, escape behaviour, lack of feeding, lethargy, and muscle cramps. Experts recommend developing health indices, ethograms, artificial intelligence monitoring, and management guidelines to advance the sector. In lieu of existing official standards, these findings offer partial guidelines and recommendations for indoor shrimp aquaculture, focusing on water chemistry, shrimp welfare, and management practices. Moulting dynamics, exuvia management, handling techniques, enrichments, and mineral requirements remain key questions for the sector.