
One of the most critical challenges often faced by shrimp farmers is murky pond water. Murky or turbid water is usually a sign that the shrimp farming environment is not in optimal condition. If left unchecked, this situation can cause stress, reduce shrimp appetite, slow down growth, and even lead to mass mortality. Therefore, it is crucial for farmers to understand the causes and solutions for murky water as early as possible.
What are the signs of suboptimal murky water and how can you overcome them? Find out in this article!
Causes of Murky Pond Water
Several factors can cause pond water to turn murky, including:
- Excessive plankton density, especially phytoplankton such as Chaetoceros or Oscillatoria, which can turn the water dark green or bluish-green.
- High ammonia levels caused by overfeeding and shrimp metabolic waste.
- Stirred-up sediment due to shrimp activity or poor pond bottom management.
- Lack of water circulation, particularly in traditional ponds without paddlewheels or mechanical aeration systems.
Effective Strategies to Overcome Murky Pond Water
To prevent murky pond water from becoming a prolonged issue, here are some strategies that can be applied effectively: