| Global mollusc production is continuously increasing and reached 12.8 million tonnes in 2004 representing 28.2 percent of the total world production valued at US$ 9.4 billions. However, cultivated molluscs may suffer from severe mortality outbreaks. Among the possible causes is the occurrence of infectious diseases due to a variety of pathogens including protozoan parasites, bacteria and viruses. Preventing and controlling diseases has become a priority for aquaculture sustainability. However, molluscs are unique in terms of health management. Molluscs like other invertebrates, lack a true adaptative immune system. Vaccination can not be used to protect them against pathogens. Moreover, molluscs are usually reared in the open sea which strongly limits the... |
