Shrimp Health Management Extension Manual - Library - Network of ...

Good soil without any black layerPoor quality, black soil with benthic algae at surface3.7. Feed management3.7.1. Risk factorsThe study found no significant relationship between amount of feed used and feeding patterns andshrimp disease outbreaks. However, good feeding practice is essential to maintain water and soilquality and a healthy environment within the ponds.3.7.2. Management guidelinesPellet feed should be given according to a fixed schedule. This schedule will depend on the bodyweight of the shrimp and the feed tray result during previous meal. On the basis of body weight, thefeed amount should be calculated. For this purpose the feed tables given on the feed bag by themanufacturer can be used. If fresh (cooked) feed such as snail or trash fish (but not crustaceanbased fresh feed) is used during the later stage of the cycle to improve the growth, it should be onlyunder close monitoring of water quality and a careful feeding strategy to avoid wastage.Feed trays should be introduced after one week of stocking and should be used to check the generalcondition of the shrimps during the first month. From 30 days of culture (DOC) onwards, feedingresults from these trays should be used to decide the meal quantity. To reduce size variations, feedsize should be changed according to the actual size of the shrimp. A mix of two feed pellet sizesshould be used for at least 7 days if there is any size variation during the regular check-up. Feedingarea should be changed at least once in 10 days depending on the bottom condition along feedingarea. This allows shrimps to feed in a clean area.20