Impact on the host Infects eggs and larvae on the periphery of egg masses on female crabs. Fungus may smother the eggs if the egg membrane is too hardened for it to penetrate. Infected eggs either deteriorate or cannot hatch successfully. Infected larvae have a fuzzy appearance, gradually cease swimming, become progressively opaque. Extramatrical hyphae with characteristic discharge vesicles and endobiotic hyphae in the transparent larvae are discernible with a dissecting microscope.
Specific diagnosis requires microscopic examination of hyphae and sporangia.
Methods of control Prompt sterilization and proper disposal of of infected larvae and culture water, with complete sterilization of the rearing system is necessary before another culture effort can be initiated. References Armstrong, D.A. and W.S. Fisher. Disease Diagnosis and Control in North American Marine Aquaculture. Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science 17. Elsevier, Amsterdam, p. 215-219.