The threat of nitrite in shrimp ponds is an impact on the environment from intensive vannamei shrimp cultivation that all shrimp farmers can face. Therefore, farmers must find out ways to prevent and overcome them immediately.
Vannamei shrimp has long been a species of shrimp cultivated in Indonesia. This is because this type of shrimp is a food that is very popular with people around the world, so its export value continues to increase from year to year.
However, the intensive cultivation of vannamei shrimp can cause various impacts on the environment, one of which is the threat of nitrites. So, how to overcome it? Read more in this article!
Also Read: Get to Know Myo IMNV Disease in Vannamei Shrimp and Its Characteristics
What is Nitrite in Shrimp Ponds?
Nitrite in shrimp ponds is a toxic substance produced from nitrogen which is only partially oxidized. This substance is not found in fresh wastewater but in wastewater that has long been settling and accumulating.
High nitrite levels can result from overfeeding of shrimp, excessive sediment density, poor water circulation, and other factors that upset the balance of the nitrogen cycle.
Nitrite is very toxic to vannamei shrimp. Its presence can cause various adverse effects, including stunted growth and development of shrimp or even death.
Nitrite is not fixed and can turn into ammonia or be oxidized to nitrate at any time. When compared with nitrate, the presence of nitrite in the waters is less. However, the level of toxicity for vannamei shrimp is very high.
The danger of nitrite toxicity in vannamei shrimp ponds is especially evident in the early stages of the cultivation cycle. During this initial stage, nitrite levels can rise rapidly and reach dangerously toxic levels.
The presence of oxygen in shrimp ponds affects the presence of nitrites in shrimp ponds. In general, waters that get an adequate supply of oxygen have lower levels of nitrite concentration when compared to waters that do not get an oxygen supply.
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How to Overcome Nitrite Threats in Shrimp Ponds
Even though it has a high level of toxicity, it does not mean that the nitrite threat cannot be overcome. One of the most important steps must be taken is monitoring water quality regularly and keeping other parameters optimal.
This can be done by adjusting the feeding, increasing oxygen circulation, and adjusting the stocking density of vannamei shrimp to prevent overcrowding.
How to deal with the threat of nitrite in shrimp ponds can also be done by adding nitrite-reducing bacteria into the pond. These bacteria can consume nitrites and convert them into less harmful substances, such as nitrogen gas.
Not only that, the presence of bacteria known as Nitrobacter can also help improve water quality along with reduced nitrite levels, making it safe for the growth of cultivated vannamei shrimp.
In addition, it is also essential to keep the pond well-aerated, especially in the early stages of the culture cycle. Adequate aeration helps ensure dissolved oxygen levels remain high, reducing the risk of nitrite toxicity and other water quality problems.
Also Read: Get to Know Vibrio Bacteria in Vaname Shrimp As the Cause of Various Diseases
Vannamei Shrimp Cultivation More Productive with DELOS!
The threat of nitrites to vannamei shrimp can occur at any time if the pond does not have adequate waste circulation. Therefore, practicing good pond management and sanitation is essential, including removing organic waste regularly and maintaining pond aeration.
By taking these steps, you can help reduce the risk of nitrite toxicity and keep the vannamei shrimp pond environment you have healthy.
For those who need assistance with vannamei shrimp cultivation to get maximum results. DELOS is the correct answer for you. DELOS is the best science, technology, and operational management-based aqua-tech company that can help you explore new opportunities in the aquaculture field.
DELOS Farm Management is also integrated with AquaHero, which makes it easy for farm owners and farm personnel to monitor the condition of their shrimp ponds through gadgets every day in real time.
Contact the DELOS Team via contact@delosaqua.com or submit via our website contact column at www.delosaqua.com to join our ecosystem. Choose DELOS for your shrimp farming assistance!