Coastal Aquaculture and Mariculture (2+1)

Unit 6 - Culture of Crustaceans

6.1.5.d. Feeding

Quality of feed has a direct impact on the growth and production of shrimps. Choose a feed of a reputed company with proven track record. During the first two weeks feed the fry @ 1Kg/1lakh seed. The feed quantity is doubled the next two weeks. From the second month onwards, feeding is based on the biomass/body weight of the shrimp. Feeding rate should be adjusted according to manufacturer’s feeding guides. Actual feeding rate will depend on results of the check trays. Place 4-8 check trays per ha of the pond area. Place 1% of the feed in each check tray. Inspect the check tray two hours later for shrimp of size less than 10g; one and half hour later for shrimps size10-20g and after one hour after feeding for shrimps more than 20g in size. If there is too much left over feed in the trays, it indicates over feeding. If no feed is left in the trays after one hour it indicates under feeding. Adjust the feed accordingly. Biomass in the pond and individual average weights of shrimps should be periodically determined by sampling and feeding rate should be adjusted accordingly. The feeding frequency should be as follows:

1st month - 3 times per day
2nd month - 4 times per day
3rd month onwards - 5 to 6 times per day

Feed Check Tray and Paddle Wheel aerator