Macrobrachium prawn breeding method
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1. Shrimp Pond Conditions
Shrimp ponds require a sufficient and fresh water supply, along with adequate dissolved oxygen to support healthy growth. The ideal pond size is between 3 to 5 acres, which helps maintain stable water quality. The pond bottom should have good sediment conditions, with a low mud layer not exceeding 15 cm. The water depth should be maintained at about 1.5 meters. Shrimp consume more oxygen than fish and are more sensitive to low oxygen levels. Therefore, it's essential to install aerators or microfluidic systems to ensure proper oxygenation. Inlet and outlet pipes must be equipped with anti-escape devices to prevent shrimp from escaping.
2. Stocking Density of Shrimp Seedlings
The stocking density of shrimp seedlings depends on various factors such as pond conditions, feed availability, management skills, and expected yield. On average, the survival rate from juvenile to adult shrimp is around 40%. To achieve a target yield of 100 kg per mu (approximately 667 square meters), if using 20 g/tail shrimp, it's recommended to release about 10,000 juveniles per acre. For larger shrimp sizes, such as 50–100 grams/tail, the stocking rate would be around 150–200 tails per square meter. If smaller shrimp (0.7–0.8 cm) are used, the density can go up to 20,000–30,000 tails per acre. It’s important to avoid introducing catfish into the same pond, as they may compete or prey on the shrimp.
3. Feeding Practices
Macrobrachium rosenbergii has specific feeding preferences and typically consumes animal-based feeds like small fish, shrimp, and quail in natural environments. It’s crucial to gradually acclimate them to artificial feed during the early stages of farming. The protein content in artificial feed should be no less than 30%–35%. The daily feed amount is usually 5%–7% of the shrimp’s body weight, decreasing to 2%–3% in later stages. Feeding should occur twice daily: one-third of the total feed in the morning (around 8 AM) and two-thirds in the late afternoon (around 5 PM). Whenever possible, include supplementary animal feeds like snails or river plants to enhance nutrition and promote better growth.
4. Water Quality Management
Water quality plays a critical role in shrimp farming. During the early rearing period, the water should be slightly clear, becoming moderately thin in the later stages. The water color should be yellow-green, with a transparency of 30–35 cm. The pH level should be maintained between 7 and 8, and the initial water depth should be 70–80 cm. Every other week, raise the water level by 10 cm. In cases of poor water quality, high temperatures, or low atmospheric pressure, additional water should be added, and aerators should be activated to increase oxygen levels. During hot weather, it's advisable to run aerators for 2 hours at noon to reduce temperature differences in the water layers and improve overall water quality. Each acre should have an aerator with a power output of at least 0.75 kW to ensure that dissolved oxygen remains above 3 mg/L.
5. Planting Shelter Materials
Planting aquatic vegetation along the pond slope provides essential shelter for Macrobrachium rosenbergii. These plants should be transplanted 70 cm away from the water surface in mid to late May. The planting distance should be about 10 cm apart, covering 20%–30% of the pond area. This creates a favorable habitat that reduces aggressive behavior among shrimp, improves survival rates, and promotes faster growth. However, excessive coverage of water spinach or similar plants can hinder photosynthesis and lead to oxygen depletion, so careful management is required.
6. Harvesting and Temperature Control
Macrobrachium rosenbergii is a tropical species with limited tolerance to cold temperatures. It struggles to survive when the water temperature drops below 14°C. Due to significant size variations, it’s best to start harvesting in early September to avoid overstocking and maintain market prices. Shrimp weighing 20 grams or more should be caught, while smaller ones are kept for further growth. After the National Day holiday, when temperatures fall below 18°C, their activity decreases, and growth slows. The typical harvesting method involves draining the pond partially, then using a net to collect the shrimp. A net bag should be placed at the drain outlet to prevent loss.
7. Important Precautions
During the breeding process, the use of trichlorfon or similar chemicals is strictly prohibited. The water temperature must remain between 15°C and 35°C to ensure optimal growth and survival. Regular monitoring and adjustments are necessary to maintain a healthy environment for the shrimp.