Biofloc Technology for Sustainable Growth of Shrimp Species: Litopenaeus Vannamei

Abstract

Aquaculture stands as the fastest-growing food-producing sector globally, undergoing continuous development, expansion, and intensification across all regions. Despite the anticipation of higher production levels, the global growth of aquaculture is constrained by the severe scarcity of water and the limited availability of suitable land. Biofloc systems have emerged as a viable solution tailored for water-scarce areas. This innovative system offers a potential food source for shrimp reared in an environmentally friendly, limited or zero water exchange environment, with minimal effluents released into the surrounding ecosystem. The present study was conducted at a corporate aquaculture farm facility located in Cuddalore district, Tamilnadu. The research focused on evaluating the water quality, survival rates, and growth performance of Litopenaeus vannamei, ranging from post-larvae (PL-9) to 26.6 grams, over a 120-day period within a Biofloc system. Three cement tanks, designated as C1 (control) and C2, C3 (test), were utilized, each with a stocking density of 120 PL/sq.m. After reaching a weight of 2 grams, the shrimp were transferred to grow-out ponds. The results indicated that shrimp reared in Biofloc tanks exhibited significantly higher final weights, survival rates, and favorable water quality parameters compared to the control group, which relied solely on commercial feed. Significantly, as the biofloc volume rose, there was a noteworthy decrease in the requirement for feed application, thereby establishing the Biofloc system as a financially efficient option for shrimp cultivation.