Using wild crabs to idle ponds

Macrobrachium rosenbergii, a tropical shrimp species, is commonly farmed in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and areas south of it. The main selling season for adult shrimp occurs from September to mid-October, when prices are typically low. However, live shrimp in the market become scarce between November and New Year's Day, leading to a significant price increase. During this time, V-breasted crab ponds are usually only used from January to May, leaving them idle for the rest of the year. To maximize economic returns, we utilized this free period for raising Macrobrachium rosenbergii, achieving excellent results. Two ponds, covering 820 and 720 square meters respectively, produced 450 kilograms of Macrobrachium rosenbergii, while also temporarily housing 950 kilograms of commercial shrimp. This operation generated a net income of over 20,000 yuan. Below is a detailed description of the technology used: I. Time Synchronization and Pond Preparation The young crabs were harvested from the net ponds before the end of May. By early June, the ponds were disinfected and prepared for shrimp stocking on June 10th. Shrimp were raised until late October, after which they were sold as commodity shrimp. In November, Daliu Xiaoxiao was launched for sale, continuing until the end of the New Year’s holiday. Tengtang then used the young crabs for the next cycle. Preparations included pond renovation, installation of intake and drainage pipes, aerators, wintering plastic film greenhouses, boilers, and heating systems. Before stocking, the ponds were cleaned, new water was introduced, decomposed manure was applied, and the water was fertilized. Aquatic peanuts were planted every 20 square meters, with one plant per 1–2 square meters. II. Shrimp Stocking and Feeding Management Healthy shrimp were selected for rearing on sunny days, ensuring that the temperature difference between ponds was not too large. Seedlings were stocked at 25,000 to 30,000 per acre, and after being raised in the middle stage, 2,000 to 5,000 larvae per acre were stocked. In the early stages, feed with 35% to 40% protein was used, and later, a mix of snails, quail meat, bean cakes, and bran (in a 1:1 ratio) was provided along with calcium and phosphorus supplements. Feeding followed the “four principles” of qualitative, quantitative, fixed-point, and regular timing. The feeding rate started at 15% of total shrimp weight and gradually decreased to about 4%. Adjustments were made based on water temperature, weather, feeding conditions, and feed type. Daily observations were conducted in the morning, evening, and midnight to monitor water clarity, shrimp distribution, feeding behavior, growth, and activity. Water temperature was measured regularly, and water was added or changed as needed. Medication was used for disease prevention, and oxygen levels were maintained. Water peanut attachments were replenished when necessary. III. Winter Holding of Commercial Shrimp When the water temperature dropped to 20°C, plastic film greenhouses were covered. The first culture of shrimp and ponds were drained, cleaned, and disinfected. Healthy, well-developed, and uniform commercial shrimp (40–60 per kilogram) were selected and stocked at 400–500 kilograms per mu. After entering the pond, the shrimp were kept warm, oxygenated, and fed properly. The greenhouse water temperature was maintained between 18°C and 20°C. If the temperature was too low, the boiler was used to heat the water. Dissolved oxygen levels should be above 3 mg/L; if rainy weather persisted, an air pump was used to increase oxygen. If the temperature was high, fresh water was replaced to maintain good water quality. During the holding period, 3% to 5% of the shrimp's body weight was fed daily in the form of pellets to ensure their health and survival rate. IV. Shrimp Harvesting and Transportation The timing of harvesting depends on water temperature and market demand. The primary goal of holding is to meet the demand for live shrimp during winter, especially around New Year's Day. On weekdays, fishing nets were used for regular catches, and during peak demand periods before and after festivals, the ponds were drained. After catching, shrimp were washed in cages immediately to prevent quality loss or death. Live shrimp can be transported using water tanks, fish bowls, or air-conditioned vehicles, with continuous aeration to ensure their survival.

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