Non-lethal heat shock induces HSP70 and HMGB1 protein production sequentially to protect Artemia franciscana against Vibrio campbellii

•HSP70 and HMGB1 proteins are molecular chaperones for protein and DNA, respectively.•In presence of stressors, these proteins are involved in generating immune responses.•HSP70 and HMGB1 were elevated sequentially in Artemia in response to mild heat stress.•These alterations were associated with improved survival of Vibrio-challenged Artemia.