Decoding shrimp phenomenon

Scientists have discovered the cause of males in shrimp and other crustaceans to turn into females: It is a transgender parasite.

Microbiologists of the University of Portsmouth (UK) discovered that paramyxean parasites are the culprits that make males turn into females.

Researchers believe that the finding could be a breakthrough for the aquaculture industry, which has suffered a great deal of damage from transgender issues.

PA is quoted by PA news agency Dr. Alex Ford from the Institute of Oceanography at the University of Portsmouth (IMS) . A serious ecological problem affects species located higher in the food chain. Marine organisms such as shrimp and mollusks are food for fish and seabirds, so the consequences can be huge. '

Dr. Stephen Short, a member of the research team, explains that sexually modified marine organisms will be more vulnerable to industrial pollutants such as plastic, oil and toxic synthetic chemicals. Harm in seawater causes them to decline their ability to cope with infection or attack.

Mr. Short emphasized: 'New-born crustaceans also become asexual (neither male nor female). This phenomenon has become widespread and widespread, threatening marine habitats. '