Summer is the peak growth season for Pacific white shrimp, but also presents the most significant management challenges. In tropical and subtropical regions, high temperatures and heavy rainfall are common. These factors often lead to algae die-offs, water quality deterioration, and disease outbreaks, putting stress on the shrimp farming system. This article outlines essential summer management techniques to help shrimp farmers maintain stable pond environments and optimize yields.
1. Water Quality Management
1.1 Optimal Water Color
Ideal pond water should appear yellow-green or light brown, dominated by beneficial green algae or diatoms, which help purify the water. Applying probiotics and microbial preparations helps cultivate dominant bacterial communities that stabilize water color and reduce organic matter.
1.2 Dissolved Oxygen Control
Maintain dissolved oxygen (DO) above 5 mg/L to prevent shrimp from surfacing due to hypoxia. Use paddle wheel or impeller aerators, especially during:
- Early morning and noon (2–3 hours daily) during hot days
- Longer durations on rainy or overcast days
???? We recommend installing FUTI brand paddle wheel or impeller aerators to ensure continuous oxygen supply during high-risk hours.
1.3 pH Management
Maintain pond pH between 7.8 and 8.5. Adjustments:
- If pH > 8.5: Use talcum powder
- If pH < 7.5 (especially after rain): Apply 10–15 kg/acre of quicklime
- Avoid overcorrection: Do not exceed 15 mg/L quicklime concentration
1.4 Toxic Substances (Ammonia, Hydrogen Sulfide, Nitrite)
Keep the following concentrations under control:
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Ammonia (NH₃) | < 0.5 mg/L |
| Hydrogen sulfide | < 0.01 mg/L |
| Nitrite (NO₂⁻) | < 0.1 mg/L |
Apply zeolite powder (15–20 kg/acre) or use microbial agents (e.g., nitrifying bacteria, Bacillus subtilis) to reduce toxins. For serious ammonia spikes, apply agents like Nitrite Remover soaked in brown sugar before application.
1.5 Water Transparency
Maintain visibility between 25–40 cm:
- < 20 cm: Partial water exchange, add zeolite or lime
- > 40 cm: Fertilize using probiotics such as “Water Conditioner” at 1 kg/acre every 7–10 days
1.6 Post-Rainfall Emergency Measures
After heavy rains, promptly:
- Drain surface water – rainwater sits above saline pond water
- Stabilize pH – apply diluted quicklime (10–15 mg/L)
- Boost oxygen – operate aerators, and apply oxygen-releasing agents (e.g., Oxy Tablets)
- Refill with seawater – gradually increase water level and discharge bottom water
- Control algae bloom – remove dead algae, apply lime milk (2.5 kg/acre), use Bacillus and zeolite for decomposition
???? FUTI aerators with high thrust capability are recommended to rapidly mix water layers and prevent stratification during and after rains.
2. Disease Prevention & Shrimp Health Management
2.1 Maintain Water Stability
Maintain ecological balance by introducing diverse microbial communities. Apply:
- Bacillus subtilis: 0.3 mg/L
- Photosynthetic bacteria or EM: 5 mg/L
2.2 Disinfection Protocol
Disinfect pond water every 10–15 days:
- Bleaching powder: 1–2 mg/kg
- Chlorine dioxide: 0.3–0.5 mg/kg
2.3 Boost Shrimp Immunity
To reduce stress and disease:
- Add Vitamin C and E at 2‰–3‰ to feed
- Alternatively, supplement with immune polysaccharides
2.4 Adjust Feeding Strategy
- Use 4 meals per day, with 30% of feed in the morning and evening, 20% at noon and night
- After heavy rains, reduce both frequency and quantity to prevent feed waste and water pollution
2.5 Bio-Purification via Polyculture
Stock 20–50 pcs/acre of omnivorous fish (e.g., tilapia, mullet) to clean uneaten feed and dead shrimp, minimizing viral spread.
3. Daily Operations & Pond Routine
3.1 Maintain Water Depth & Temperature
- Maintain depth ≥ 1.8 m during mid–late grow-out period
- During heatwaves (>35°C), increase to 2.0 m
- Exchange 1/3 pond water daily; do not exceed 50% per session
- Use deep-well seawater filtered through 60-mesh netting to avoid pathogen intrusion
3.2 Smart Feeding Practice
- Observe feeding trays 1 hour post-feeding
- Adjust feeding if leftover is visible
- Remove excess feed promptly after rain
3.3 Frequent Pond Monitoring
Conduct three patrols per day (morning, noon, evening). Focus on:
- Shrimp appetite
- Abnormal swimming
- Surface activity or shrimp dying near the pond edge
???? Keep disease samples for lab testing. If not feasible, coordinate with technical support teams for sampling and proper disposal to avoid cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Summer shrimp farming success depends on preventative care, water quality vigilance, and emergency readiness. With smart feeding strategies, microbial management, and reliable aeration equipment like FUTI’s paddle wheel and impeller aerators, farmers can significantly reduce losses during this high-risk season.
