ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram, has standardised a high-density culture protocol for Penaeus vannamei (Pacific white shrimp) using a biofloc-based production system suited to the conditions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The system uses 10,000-litre tarpaulin-lined biofloc tanks equipped with standby power supply to ensure continuous aeration. Healthy PL-10 shrimp seed is stocked at a high density of 3,000 shrimp/m³ and reared on formulated pellet feed under continuous aeration. Systematic biofloc development, regular water-quality monitoring, carbon supplementation, adequate aeration and optimised feeding management help maintain stable culture conditions throughout the 100–120-day production cycle.
A culture cycle of 3.5–4 months yields approximately 30 kg of shrimp per tank, with a feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 1.2, indicating efficient feed utilisation. The system has recorded a cost–benefit ratio of 1.96, demonstrating its economic potential under island conditions. Its efficient use of water and limited land requirements makes it a promising technology for sustainable shrimp production in the region.
Technology Popularisation and Adoption
ICAR-CIARI has popularised the standardised biofloc-based shrimp culture technology through training programmes, farmer awareness programmes, demonstrations and technical advisories across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Its efficient resource utilisation, low land requirement and economic potential have generated interest among local shrimp farmers. Consequently, two progressive farmers in South Andaman district have adopted the technology for Penaeus vannamei culture.
ICAR-CIARI continues to provide technical guidance on tank preparation, stocking, biofloc development, water-quality management, feeding and disease prevention to support successful adoption and facilitate wider dissemination of this technology across the islands.
(Source: ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram)
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