How Can I Improve Shrimp Survival Rates in My Farm? The Path to Success

Shrimp survival is a critical factor in the success and profitability of shrimp farming. The survival rate (SR) reflects the number of shrimp that successfully reach harvest compared to the initial stocking population. It is a key parameter that influences economic performance by impacting yield, growth, and management efficiency. This article explores the factors affecting shrimp survival, practical calculations for SR, and strategies for improving this essential metric in shrimp farming.

Understanding Shrimp Survival Rate (SR)

The Survival Rate (SR) is calculated as the percentage of shrimp surviving from stocking to harvest. This metric helps farmers evaluate the health and efficiency of their farming practices. The formula for SR is as follows:

Survival Rate (SR)=(Initial Stocking Population / Harvest Population​)×100%

For example, if a farmer stocks 20,000 shrimp fry in a pond and harvests 16,500 shrimp, the SR would be:

SR=(20,000 / 16,500​)×100%=82.5%

This result demonstrates a healthy survival rate within the ideal range for household-scale ponds, which is typically 80–90%.

Understanding Shrimp Survival Rate (SR)

Determinants of Shrimp Survival Rates

Several complex factors influence the shrimp survival rate, ranging from environmental conditions to feed quality and disease management.

1. Water Quality

Water quality is the foundation of shrimp farming success. Key parameters such as dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, salinity, and ammonia levels play vital roles in ensuring a healthy environment for shrimp. Low DO levels can lead to oxygen stress, reducing shrimp activity and increasing their vulnerability to diseases. Similarly, fluctuations in pH or salinity can disrupt shrimp metabolism, causing stress that impacts growth and survival.

Moreover, ammonia buildup from feed waste and shrimp excrement poses a significant risk. Excess ammonia is toxic to shrimp and can lead to slower growth rates or mortality. Regular water quality testing and adjustments, such as aerating ponds or using biofilters, are essential for maintaining optimal conditions.

2. Feed Quality and Feeding Regimens

The quality of feed directly impacts shrimp health and survival. Nutritionally imbalanced or contaminated feed can weaken shrimp immune systems, leaving them prone to disease. High-quality feed must provide essential nutrients like protein, lipids, and vitamins to support healthy growth.

Feeding habits can also have an impact. Overfeeding leads to waste accumulation at the pond bottom, deteriorating water quality and increasing ammonia levels. Underfeeding, on the other hand, causes nutritional deficiencies and stunted growth. Using tools like the Survival Calculator to determine the appropriate feed amount ensures efficient feed conversion and minimizes waste.

3. Stocking Density

Stocking density is a critical factor that can significantly influence shrimp survival rates. Overcrowding in ponds increases competition for oxygen, space, and feed, which can stress shrimp and slow their growth. High densities also promote the rapid spread of diseases, amplifying mortality risks.

On the contrary, low stocking densities may underutilize pond capacity and reduce yield. Striking the right balance based on pond size and aeration capacity ensures an environment conducive to growth while maintaining optimal survival rates.

4. Shrimp Fry Health

The health and quality of shrimp fry are decisive for survival. Weak or disease-prone fry often result in lower survival rates during the cultivation cycle. Selecting fry with Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) certification reduces the risk of introducing pathogens into the pond. Additionally, healthy fry adapt more quickly to new environments, boosting their chances of survival.

5. Disease Management

Diseases like White Spot Disease (WSD) and Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND) are major threats to shrimp survival. These diseases can spread rapidly, causing mass mortality. Implementing strong biosecurity measures, routine health checks, and timely treatment of infections minimizes disease outbreaks, ensuring a higher survival rate.

By addressing these factors systematically, shrimp farmers can significantly enhance survival rates and overall production efficiency.

Determinants of shrimp survival rates

Calculating and Optimizing Shrimp Survival Rate

Farmers can use the following steps to calculate and optimize SR:

1. Determine Initial Stocking Population:
   Multiply stocking density by pond area and the number of ponds.
   Initial Stocking Population=Stocking Density (PL/m²)×Pond Area (m²)×Number of Ponds\text{Initial Stocking Population} = \text{Stocking Density (PL/m²)} \times \text{Pond Area (m²)} \times \text{Number of Ponds}Initial Stocking Population=Stocking Density (PL/m²)×Pond Area (m²)×Number of Ponds
2. Record Harvest Population:
   Count the number of shrimp harvested from the pond.
3. Calculate SR:
   Use the formula provided above to determine the survival rate.

By regularly monitoring SR and analyzing contributing factors, farmers can identify areas for improvement and implement targeted interventions.

Average Survival Rates and Benchmarking

According to research, the average SR for vannamei shrimp with stocking densities of 80–200 PL/m² ranges from 50% to 90%, depending on cultivation methods and external factors. Lower SR percentages may indicate:

• Poor water quality management.
• Inadequate feeding practices.
• Disease outbreaks or unhealthy fry.

By setting benchmarks and monitoring trends, farmers can ensure their SR aligns with industry standards.

Average Survival Rates and Benchmarking

Best Practices for Improving Shrimp Survival Rate

To maximize shrimp survival, farmers should adopt the following best practices:

1. Perform frequent water quality inspections:
   Use reliable testing equipment to monitor critical parameters like DO, pH, and ammonia.
2. Follow sustainable feeding guidelines:
   Utilize tools like the Survival Calculator to optimize feeding schedules and reduce waste.
3. Prevent overcrowding:
   To create a less stressful and competitive environment, reduce overcrowding.
4. Enhance Biosecurity Measures:
   Prevent disease introduction by quarantining new fry and disinfecting equipment.
5. Anticipate variable weather:
   Use aerators and pond covers to mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions.
6. Invest in High-Quality Fry:
   Source fry from trusted suppliers with SPF certification to ensure healthy stock.

Conclusion

Shrimp survival is a cornerstone of successful shrimp farming. By understanding and managing the factors that influence survival rates, farmers can achieve higher yields, better economic returns, and more sustainable farming practices. Tools like the Survival Calculator offer practical solutions for optimizing feed and improving SR. By adopting best practices in water quality management, feeding, stocking density, and biosecurity, shrimp farmers can ensure robust survival rates and long-term profitability.

Maximizing SR is not only about preventing mortality; it is about fostering an environment where shrimp can thrive. By focusing on this critical parameter, shrimp farmers can unlock the full potential of their aquaculture endeavors.