Ambient copper modulates immunocompetence and induces physiological responses in Penaeus monodon against white spot syndrome virus infection

• Published in: Fish & shellfish immunology 2023-09, Vol.140, p.108968, Article 108968
• Main Authors: Joseph, Annies, Philip, Rosamma
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Copper; Haemolymph; Immune response; Penaeus monodon; White spot syndrome virus
• ISSN: 1050-4648; 1095-9947
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.108968

Among trace metals, copper is essential for crustaceans' normal growth and metabolism. In the present study, an attempt was made to determine whether the addition of copper in rearing water influences the physiological and immunological responses of Penaeus monodon to white spot syndrome virus infection (WSSV). Adult P. monodon were distributed in experimental tanks and exposed to 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg l−1 copper concentrations. After 14 days, the shrimps were challenged with WSSV and the biochemical/immune variables were determined on post-metal exposure day 14 and post-challenge days 2 and 5. Significant variations could be observed in the haemolymph (biochemical and immune) variables of P. monodon on exposure to copper and WSSV challenge. Shrimps exposed to copper at 0.1 mg l−1 showed higher total haemocyte count, phenol oxidase activity, nitro blue tetrazolium salt reduction, alkaline/acid phosphatase activity, total protein, carbohydrates, lipids, glucose and cholesterol besides maximum post-challenge survival. However, exposure to copper at 0.2 and 0.3 mgl−1 increased the susceptibility to WSSV infection, showing a decrease in the biochemical/immune variables. Therefore, the present study concludes that copper in ambient water induces immunomodulation and evokes physiological responses in P. monodon at sub-lethal doses. Immunostimulatory effects elicited by copper at 0.1 mg l−1 enhanced the immunocompetence and reduced the susceptibility of P. monodon to WSSV infection, conferring protection to the animals and resulting in higher survival. •Ambient copper at 0.1 mg l−1 enhanced immunocompetence in Penaeus monodon, reducing the susceptibility to WSSV infection.•General physiological condition and immune response better in P. monodon maintained in water with 0.1 mg l−1 Cu.•Higher copper doses of 0.2 and 0.3 mg l−1 induced stress, resulting in poor metabolic condition and immune status.•Copper doses of 0.2 and 0.3 mg l−1 in rearing water increased the susceptibility of P. monodon to WSSV infection.