Apseudes latreillei

Taxonomic status and classification. Apseudes latreillei is a species of crustacean belonging to the order Tanaidacea, family Apseudidae. While primarily known as part of the marine benthic community, it is identified as a secondary pest in aquaculture environments due to its tendency to colonize artificial structures.

Biology and life cycle. This species inhabits bottom sediments and crevices. Its life cycle involves larval stages that can disperse with currents before settling on suitable substrates. They thrive in environments rich in organic matter, often found in high-density aquaculture zones where leftover feed and waste accumulate on the seafloor.

Crops and organisms affected. The pest primarily impacts bivalve farming, seaweed cultivation, and cage-based aquaculture. By settling on ropes, netting, and shells, these crustaceans create biofouling, which complicates the growth of the target species and interferes with their feeding and respiratory processes.

Nature of damage and economic impact. The presence of Apseudes latreillei leads to the degradation of the culture environment. Their activity promotes the buildup of silt and organic debris around the cultivated organisms, which lowers oxygen levels and creates ideal conditions for secondary infections or pathogenic bacterial growth.

Protection and control measures. Management strategies focus on physical maintenance and environmental control. Key methods include:

• Routine cleaning and pressure washing of cage nets and infrastructure;
• Application of non-toxic anti-fouling coatings;
• Monitoring of sedimentation levels within the farming area;
• Strategic relocation of equipment to reduce infestation risks.