Materials & Equipment

Aeration criteria

Blower and diffusers to provide oxygen (> 5.0 ppm) and paddlewheels to create water current

Diffuser tube

Diffuser tube with weight

Air manifold valve

Diffuser tube set-up

Requirement for one 500 m2 round tank:

1) Roots blower: 3 hp

2) Paddlewheels (2): 3 hp x 2 = 6 hp

Total: 9 hp per 500 m2 tank

Roots blower; 3 hp per 500 m2 round tank

One diffuser for every 3 m2.

Automatic feeders; one per round tank

Feeding and Nutrition

As the risk of disease outbreaks and crop failures are significantly reduced using this round-tank technology, more emphasis is placed on providing a high-protein diet to these genetically superior shrimp strains. Given the lack of natural productivity coupled with high-performance genetics, a high-quality feed (45% protein starting at the nursery phase down to 40% protein in the final grow-out phase) is recommended.

Both automatic feeders and manual feeding are used in these round-tank farms. However, automatic feeding is preferred as the feeding frequency is increased which optimizes feed uptake. Feeding trays and sampling are used to monitor feed uptake to prevent overfeeding. Typical Feed Conversion Rates (FCR) range from 1.2 to 1.5, depending on the harvest size of the shrimp. Feed management is important in maintaining low Feed Conversion Rates (FCR).

Fiberglass cone center drain

Standard diameter for this fiberglass drainage cone is 1.5 meters. Prefabricated fiberglass center cones are manufactured by several companies in Vietnam. Cost is approximate $150 USD per cone.

Catwalk or pier towards the center of the tank

Feeding trays are necessary for feed monitoring.