VIABILIDAD DEL CULTIVO DE CAMARÓN BLANCO DEL PACÍFICO Penaeus vannamei EN JAULAS FLOTANTES EN AGUAS DEL ECUADOR

Abstract

The Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) is a key species for Ecuador’s aquaculture economy, but traditional farming methods pose environmental challenges, particularly in mangrove ecosystems. Floating cage systems present an innovative solution for sustainable shrimp farming in estuarine environments. This study evaluated the growth performance, water quality, plankton dynamics, pathogens and economic viability of cultivating P. vannamei in floating cages. Over 56 days, three 15 m³ floating cages stocked with shrimp at 150 organims/m³ were monitored. Shrimp were fed a commercial diet (35% protein) at 10% of their biomass. Weekly assessments included water quality analysis using molecular absorption spectrophotometry with colorimetric methods, plankton monitoring, and pathogen detection via real-time PCR. Survival rates, growth performance, and economic metrics were also evaluated. Optimal water quality was maintained, with dissolved oxygen (8.21 ± 0.059 mg/L-1) and ammonium (0.01 ± 0.00 ppm) within recommended limits. Phytoplankton densities ranged from 7,225 to 28,900 cells/L, dominated by Chaetoceros affinis. Zooplankton was led by Hexanauplia (44%), with Acartia lilljeborgi as the representative species. Shrimp achieved a growth rate of 0.15 ± 0.169 g/day-1, reaching a final weight of 11.34 ± 2.492 g. Despite WSSV detection in one cage, system viability remained unaffected. The study demonstrated 28% net profitability and a promising return on investment, supporting broader implementation in estuarine areas. This approach enhances sustainability and strengthens local economies. Future research should focus on improving survival rates and scaling the system for expanded applications.

Keywords: Shrimp, platform, oceanography parameters, diseases, economic performs