Glossary

FARMING PRACTICES

Larviculture involves rearing and cultivating shrimp larvae in controlled facilities until they reach the postlarval stage. This critical stage in shrimp farming ensures the production of healthy and robust shrimp. The process begins when farmers collect shrimp eggs and fertilize them in specialized tanks.

Once hatched, farmers transfer the larvae to rearing tanks and provide optimal conditions for growth. They maintain precise water quality, temperature, and salinity levels. The larvae receive a nutritious diet of microalgae and specialized feed to promote rapid development.

Farmers must vigilantly prevent disease and stress during larviculture. They perform regular health checks and implement biosecurity measures to keep the larvae healthy. As the larvae grow, they molt several times before reaching the postlarval stage, ready for transfer to grow-out facilities.

Mariculture, which involves cultivating shrimp and other aquatic organisms in marine or coastal environments, complements larviculture. Estuaries and bays offer ideal conditions for mariculture, allowing shrimp to mature in a natural yet controlled setting. This integrated approach ensures a steady supply of high-quality shrimp for commercial purposes, supporting both the industry and the environment.