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Feed represents the [largest cost](https://jala.tech/blog/cultivation-tips/profit-and-business-opportunities-in-vannamei-shrimp-farming) component in shrimp farming. Therefore, feeding practices should never be taken lightly. Improper feeding techniques can lead to feed waste, declining water quality, and suboptimal shrimp growth. In shrimp ponds, two feeding methods are most commonly applied, manual feeding and automatic feeding using autofeeders.

So, which method is more effective? Let’s explore the details below!

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## Manual Feeding
Manual feeding is still widely practiced, particularly in small to medium scale shrimp farms. However, to ensure feed is efficiently consumed by shrimp, this method must be carried out correctly.

Several key points to consider when applying manual feeding include:
- Turn off paddlewheels 15 minutes before feeding. This prevents feed from being immediately carried away by water currents before shrimp have a chance to consume it.
- Restart paddlewheels approximately 1 hour after feeding.
- Moisten crumble feed before application. This prevents feed from being blown away by wind and helps it sink more quickly.

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## Feeding with Autofeeders
Along with technological advancements, the use of autofeeders has become increasingly common in shrimp farming. Autofeeders distribute feed automatically using mechanical systems, eliminating the need for technicians or pond workers to manually spread feed around the pond. In principle, autofeeders are designed to improve feeding accuracy and consistency.

## Advantages of Using Autofeeders
Autofeeders are considered effective tools for improving feeding efficiency. Some of their main advantages include:
- More even feed distribution across the pond.
- Precise control of feeding intervals.
- Reduced labor costs for feeding activities.

Research also shows that the use of autofeeders, compared to manual feeding, does not result in significant differences in water quality parameters such as pH, DO, and salinity. In fact, ammonia and nitrite concentrations tend to be lower in ponds using autofeeders. From a performance perspective, shrimp fed using autofeeders demonstrate better results for lower Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), higher Average Daily Growth ([ADG](https://jala.tech/blog/cultivation-tips/what-is-adg)), increased Average Body Weight ([ABW](https://jala.tech/blog/cultivation-tips/shrimp-abw-is)), higher Survival Rate (SR) and overall biomass.

## Conclusion
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In practice, the choice between manual feeding and autofeeders depends on each farmer’s management strategy. Both methods have their own strengths and limitations that should be aligned with pond conditions, available resources, and overall farm management. Regardless of the method used, the primary goal of feeding remains the same, to achieve the highest possible feed efficiency, supporting optimal shrimp growth while keeping production costs under control. JALA also provides access to high quality shrimp feed with flexible payment schemes, allowing farmers to align feed procurement with their operational needs and cash flow.

Manual feeding and autofeeders play a key role in feed efficiency and shrimp growth. Understand the strengths of each method to support optimal farm management.

Manual or Autofeeder: Which Is More Efficient for Shrimp Farming?

Manual Feeding