Vannamei shrimp stocking density is the quantity of shrimp fry stocked in a pond. In shrimp farming, it is important to determine the optimal density of vannamei shrimp before stocking the fry and starting the cycle.
Vannamei shrimp stocking density is also a determining aspect of cultivation system, which is divided into the following 4 categories:
- Traditional or extensive (<50 PL/m²)
- Semi intensive (<100 PL/m²)
- Intensive (100-200 PL/m²)
- Supra intensive (>200 PL/m²)
Read further: 4 Types of Shrimp Farms: From Traditional to Supra Intensive What about the impact, factor, and how to count vannamei shrimp stocking density? Read further in the discussion below.
The Impact of Stocking Density on Cultivation Success
Vannamei shrimp stocking density is a crucial factor that needs to be taken into account for successful cultivation. Overly high or low stocking density has different effects on the cultivation process.
Overly high stocking density
Overly high stocking density of vannamei shrimp in a small pond results in a confined movement of the shrimp’s space. Shrimp will have restricted movement and inadequate oxygen supply. Shrimp’s growth rate may be slower and its survival rate may decrease as well.
Overly low stocking density
On the other hand, overly low stocking density of vannamei shrimp allows the shrimp to move more freely, indeed. However, plankton, which is the shrimp’s natural feed source, will develop more quickly. It is a process known as plankton blooming, which may reduce the water clarity.
Stocking Density Factors
Stocking density is basically determined by the quantity of shrimp fry stocked in the pond and the pond area itself. These two factors need to be considered to achieve the optimal stocking density and enable successful cultivation.
Too many shrimp fry stocked in small ponds will be detrimental to the cultivation itself. Shrimp growth will not reach its best because of increased competition for food and oxygen. Additionally, stricter precautions must be taken to prevent diseases caused by viruses.
Likewise, when the shrimp fry stocked are lacking in a large pond, other microorganisms, such as plankton, will grow faster. The water may turn murky and the sunlight needed for algae photosynthesis becomes less than optimal.
How to Measure Stocking Density Based on Farm Type
When preparing for the cultivation cycle, you can measure the vannamei shrimp stocking density before stocking. The goal is to calculate the ideal capacity of a pond to accommodate fry which will later grow into shrimp.
In more intensive system ponds, it is also important to consider the aerator and paddle wheel used in a single pond.
However, here is the general formula to count vannamei shrimp stocking density in one pond:
Stocking density = Shrimp fry / Pond area
Unit description:
- Stocking density: PL/m²
- Shrimp fry: PL
- Pond area: m²
For example, Mr. Jali wants to stock approximately 4000 PL of shrimp fry in pond A with an area of 100 m². The stocking density of pond A is calculated using the following steps:
Stocking density = Shrimp fry / Pond area = 4000 PL / 100 m² = 40 PL/m²
From the calculation above, the stocking density of Mr. Jali's pond is 40 PL/m².
Conclusion
Vannamei shrimp stocking density is the quantity of shrimp fry stocked per pond area, which also determines the cultivation system. Calculating vannamei shrimp stocking density is done by dividing the shrimp fry quantity (PL) by the pond area (m²).
Every time you want to stock fry at the beginning of the cycle, make sure to record it in JALA App, the shrimp farm management app from JALA. Besides recording, JALA App is #HeretoHelp shrimp farmers monitor and analyze cultivation data.
Discover the many benefits of JALA App from anywhere and at any time. Access JALA App through app.jala.tech or download the app on Google Play Store or App Store.
Reference
Prihantoro, dkk. (2015). Pengaruh Padat Tebar terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Kualitas Udang Windu (Penaeus monodon) pada Sistem Nurseri. Aquasains, 3(2), 253-258.
