In theory, temperature is a factor that affects the rate of biochemical reactions in nature, and water temperature can be affected by location and local weather. In areas with high rainfall intensity, for example, water temperatures are often lower.
When cultivating shrimp, we frequently encounter unexpected temperature dynamics. Extreme temperature fluctuations will have an impact on shrimp farm ecosystems and shrimp physiology. How does temperature impact it? Read the discussion below.
The Effect of Temperature on Shrimp Farming
In shrimp farming, temperature affects growth, survival rate (SR), oxygen consumption, molting cycle, and immune response. As cold-blooded organisms, shrimp are exceptionally sensitive to temperature fluctuations in their environment. Drastic temperature fluctuations may stress shrimp, lower their appetite, slow their growth, and potentially raise disease risk.
Sudden drops in temperature can cause stress and even mortality to shrimp, particularly those infected with Vibrio. Too low temperatures (below 26°C) also affect shrimp immunity, making them susceptible to disease.
On the other hand, high temperatures (over 32°C) cause faster shrimp metabolism, which is related to their appetite. When the water temperature is high, shrimp appetite increases, causing the feed conversion ratio (FCR) to rise. Increased water temperature may also raise the sensitivity of toxins produced by cyanobacteria or blue green algae to shrimp.
Temperature Fluctuations During the Bediding Season
In Indonesia, there is a natural phenomenon related to temperature to be aware of, known as the bediding season. The bediding season, derived from the Javanese term, “bedhidhing” (meaning the atmosphere feels cold), is a transition period or change of seasons marked by extreme temperature fluctuations. During this season, the air temperature might drop significantly at night and in the morning, resulting in a cold atmosphere. Meanwhile, the temperature rises during the day, resulting in hot and scorching weather.
Because of these extreme temperature fluctuations, shrimp are prone to stress and their immune systems can deteriorate. As a result, the risk of pathogen infection increases, making shrimp more susceptible to diseases like vibriosis and white spot disease. Shrimp growth is also threatened since the shrimp's energy is spent on survival rather than growth.
How to Anticipate Temperature Changes during the Bediding Season
As farmers, there are several anticipatory measures that can be taken during the bediding season, including:
