Feed Management Techniques for L. Vannamei Shrimp Farming
Shrimp production methods vary from extensive pond-based systems to semi-intensive compound-fed systems. To optimize production, feed utilization must be planned, with consideration for shrimp growth and pond ecosystem capacity. Weekly sampling helps estimate growth. Using high-quality, nutritionally balanced feeds and good feed management practices improves efficiency and reduces environmental impact. Quality feeds are cost-effective, enhancing digestibility and minimizing nutrient load. Poorly formulated feeds increase production costs and inefficiencies. Success depends on feed transport, storage, feeding regime, and farm management.
A well-managed feeding program ensures precise feed rations tailored to meet shrimp's nutritional needs and feeding habits at various growth stages. Effective nutrient utilization from both compound feed and natural food is guaranteed
Feed management is key for shrimp nutrition
- Nutrient content and composition matter.
- Physical properties and water stability affect feed quality.
- Proper transportation and storage are crucial.
- The feeding method influences effectiveness.
- Farming systems, stocking density, water management, and natural food availability are significant.
Factors influencing shrimp feed management
- Shrimp are opportunistic feeders, scavenging in natural conditions.
- They consume food particles in the water and organisms on pond bottoms.
- Due to poor vision, shrimp rely on chemical cues to locate food.
- Compound feeds must remain submerged for hours before consumption.
Factors Influencing the growth of the shrimps
Under practical farming conditions, the feeding response, feed intake (Expressed as per cent shrimp body weight), feed utilization efficiency and growth of shrimp vary with numerous biological, environmental, and human factors, including:
- Shrimp body weight
- Water temperature
- Natural food availability
- Compound feed formulation and nutrient density
- Shrimp feed application method
- Shrimp molt cycle, lunar cycle phase and feeding behaviour
- Shrimp health and wellbeing, including ecosystem health
Effective feed management in different seasons
- Summer: Increase feed content threefold; skip afternoon feeding to minimize wastage. Increase feed during high temperatures based on check tray observations.
- Winter: Broadcast feed after sunrise due to lower temperatures and reduced feed intake.
- Rainy days: Decrease total daily feed ration by 10%.
- Cloudy weather and rainy season: Adjust feeding based on check tray observations.
- Molting time: Reduce total daily feed ratio by 10%.
- Before feeding: Run aerators for 30 minutes to increase oxygen levels in water, enhancing feeding effectiveness.
- High ammonia and toxins: Reduce feed by 5% to mitigate risks.