Shrimp Farming and the Environment - Library

Models of shrimp farmsIn the following paragraphs, details relating to some typical shrimp farming models are given. Asummary of the main characteristics of each model is provided in Figure 8.Shrimp farms are commonly referred to as extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive. Other designationssuch as traditional, semi-extensive, and improved extensive are also to be found in the literature.Although there are no universally accepted and clear definitions of these types, traditional shrimpfarming generally refers to systems that rely on the natural entry of wild seed into tidal ponds;extensive shrimp farming generally means low stocking density (typically 15PL/m 2 ).However, other features, such as intensity of use of feed or chemicals, may also be used to define thesedifferent types.As stocking densities increase, the farms tend to be smaller, the technology is more sophisticated,capital costs go up, production and income per unit of space increases dramatically, and financial risksincrease. If badly sited or managed, or if workers’ skills are inadequate, the risks of disease and croplosses also increase with growing intensity. However, disease can strike at any level of intensity.Recent disease outbreaks in Asia have affected all farms, irrespective of intensity.14