Vannamei shrimp size is one of the crucial parameters for determining the success of cultivation. Usually, there is a target size to be achieved for certain post-larval shrimp stages. Therefore, farmers must know how to calculate shrimp size accurately.
Knowing how to calculate vannamei shrimp size accurately can provide many benefits for farmers. This includes feed planning, determining selling prices at harvest, and assessing whether shrimp cultivation is being done correctly.
For those who are not familiar with vannamei shrimp size, here is a summary for you.
Also Read: Understanding the Term “Anti-Dumping” in Shrimp Export
What is Vannamei Shrimp Size?
Size in shrimp cultivation is one of the indicators of successful farming. By knowing the size of the shrimp, you can determine the profit you will get in one cycle because size also determines the selling price to suppliers.
Vannamei shrimp size is a measurement system based on the number of shrimp per kilogram. The smaller the size number, the heavier and larger the shrimp produced. For example, a size 20 shrimp means there are 20 shrimp per kilogram.
Usually, during cultivation, shrimp with a size of 100 already have a market value, so partial harvesting is done. Subsequently, farmers can harvest when the shrimp reach size 90, size 50, and so on.
Also Read: 11 Types of Shrimp Diseases that Often Occur During Cultivation
How to Calculate Vannamei Shrimp Size?
Calculating vannamei shrimp size is not difficult to understand. Usually, shrimp size is measured periodically during cultivation at certain post-larval stages and at harvest. Both are done using sampling methods.
After taking several shrimp for sampling using a scoop net or net, you can calculate the size using the formula:
For example, if sampling is done at post-larval stage 50 and the average body weight of shrimp obtained is 15 grams. Then, the size calculation is as follows:
Size = 1000 grams / 15 grams = 66.67
So, the calculated shrimp size is 66.67 shrimp/kg.
Also Read: When is the Right Time to Change Shrimp Pond Water?
Tips to Achieve Optimal Shrimp Size
1. Ensure Water Quality Remains Optimal
The first tip to achieve optimal shrimp size is to ensure that all water quality parameters are always within the optimal range. Poor water quality can hinder shrimp growth. Moreover, sudden changes in water quality can stress the shrimp.
2. Choose High-Quality Post-Larvae
In essence, selecting high-quality post-larvae is the key to successful vannamei shrimp farming, including achieving optimal shrimp size. Incorrect selection and uncertified post-larvae can result in slow growth or increased susceptibility to diseases, making it difficult to achieve optimal size.
Furthermore, improper post-larvae stocking can lead to suboptimal shrimp growth. For example, excessive exposure to direct sunlight, stocking post-larvae without prior acclimatization, neglecting water quality, and overstocking.
3. Implement Best Operational Management
Implementing good operational management of shrimp ponds can also be a factor in achieving optimal shrimp size or not. Operational management includes feed management, water quality management, and daily shrimp maintenance.
4. Ensure Shrimp Nutrition is Met
When conducting intensive to super-intensive vannamei shrimp farming, providing feed and other supporting nutrition is crucial for optimal shrimp growth. Make sure to provide feed suitable for shrimp age, both in terms of nutrient composition and quantity.
5. Conduct Regular Sampling
To monitor the growth of your shrimp size and determine whether your shrimp are growing optimally, you need to conduct regular sampling. This sampling is very useful for checking the overall condition of your shrimp, including their health.
Also Read: Application of Proper Biosecurity for Shrimp Ponds
Vannamei Shrimp Farming is More Productive with DELOS!
Calculating vannamei shrimp size is easy to do once you know how. Additionally, you need to ensure that you continuously monitor the growth rate of your shrimp during cultivation.
DELOS can help you manage your vannamei shrimp ponds, including improving production yields in each cycle. DELOS is a leading aquatech company based on science, technology, and best operational management practices that can help you explore opportunities in this industry.
Contact DELOS at contact@delosaqua.com or visit www.delosaqua.com to discuss your shrimp farming issues. Vannamei shrimp farming is more productive with DELOS!