CHARACTERIZATION OF A LOW WATER EXCHANGE SYSTEM FOR INTENSIVE SHRIMP PRODUCTION IN A SUBTROPICAL ENVIRONMENT
The use of intensive systems with reduced water exchange for shrimp culture in Mexico is an alternative to limit the potential impact of diseases, such as WSSV and EMS. However, implementation has been limited due to management concerns, particularly with relation to production potential.
Of particular concern is the paucity of information on the variations in water quality parameters occurring during culture, especially in areas where climatic conditions are challenging. The objective of this study was to determine the level of variability on water quality for intensive shrimp production in the subtropical environment of Baja California Sur. We used six 1,000 m2 PVC lined ponds at BioHelis, the Innovation and Technology Park operated by CIBNOR, with 24 h aeration, increased step-wise according to biomass, and pulse water exchange equivalent to less than 2%/day. A commercial pelleted ration with 35% CP was fed 2 times/day. Yields for the intensive production system consistently reached 13,400 kg/Ha/cycle. Results and water quality characterization for the system represent an important advance towards more sustainable systems. Implications for the consolidation of intensive shrimp culture in subtropical environments are discussed.