Water quality parameters are crucial elements that influence the success of shrimp pond cultivation. An optimal water environment not only ensures the comfort of living organisms within it but also supports optimal growth.
Fluctuations in water quality can induce stress in shrimp, increase the risk of diseases, and ultimately elevate mortality rates in pond cultivation. As such, farmers must continuously monitor these parameters. Here are the water quality parameters for shrimp ponds and their optimal ranges.
Water Quality Parameters to be Monitored
1. Temperature
Water temperature significantly impacts shrimp metabolism. Low temperatures can inhibit metabolism and appetite, while high temperatures can increase metabolic rates, potentially leading to death. The optimal temperature range for shrimp cultivation is 28-30°C.
2. Clarity
Water clarity reflects how much sunlight penetrates the pond. Phytoplankton use sunlight for photosynthesis, but excessive clarity can disturb shrimp. The ideal clarity ranges from 25-40 cm, depending on pond depth.
3. Water Color
Water color is influenced by microorganisms, dissolved substances, and minerals in the pond. Green water indicates healthy phytoplankton growth, but it’s important to note that green color doesn’t always signify good water quality.
4. Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
DO is essential for respiration and metabolism. The pond’s DO levels should be maintained at no less than 4 ppm, as insufficient DO can lead to water toxicity and mass mortality.
5. Salinity
Salinity reflects the amount of dissolved salt in the water. The recommended salinity for shrimp cultivation is 15-25 ppt. Salinity balance can be adjusted by adding fresh water or salt.
6. pH
Pond water pH reflects potential productivity. The pH range for pond water is 7.5-8.0 in the morning and 8.0-8.5 in the afternoon. Extremely low or high pH levels can cause toxicity and harm to organisms in the pond.
7. Nitrite and Nitrate
Nitrite and nitrate come from the nitrogen cycle. Accumulated nitrite can lower shrimp immune responses, so it’s crucial to control nitrite and nitrate values below 0.5 mg/L.
8. Total Vibrio Counts (TVC)
If TVC reaches high levels (> 3 × 10³ CFU/ml), administer probiotics for protection against vibrio. Additionally, control feeding and clean the pond bottom with a siphon and central drain.
9. Ammonia
The accumulation of leftover feed and shrimp waste settling at the pond bottom increases the ammonia level. High concentrations of ammonia produce an unpleasant odor, hinder growth, and can even cause mortality to the organisms within. When ammonia accumulates to toxic levels, shrimp or fish struggle to efficiently extract energy from the feed. It is crucial to maintain the ammonia level in the pond at or below 0.1 mg/L.
10. Total Organic Matters (TOM)
Increased organic matter due to plankton decrease, excessive feeding, and/or shrimp waste accumulation can trigger vibrio bacteria development, excessive algae growth, and elevated TAN and phosphate content.
If TOM is high due to plankton decline, siphon to remove settled dead plankton. If signs of overfeeding are present, take steps such as siphoning, reducing feed quantity, and diluting water.
Record and Monitor Your Pond Water
By observing and maintaining these water quality parameters, farmers can create an environment supporting optimal growth while reducing the risk of diseases and mortality in shrimp cultivation.
Source : https://delosaqua.com/water-quality-parameters-in-shrimp-farms/
