Macrobrachium rosenbergii, commonly known as the giant freshwater prawn, requires brackish water with a specific salinity level for successful breeding, hatching, and larval development. As a result, these prawns, typically raised in freshwater ponds, are unable to reproduce naturally. Therefore, the seedstock used for Macrobrachium rosenbergii farming is largely dependent on artificial propagation methods.
Coastal shrimp breeding areas can be adapted for the cultivation of Macrobrachium rosenbergii larvae, or dedicated hatcheries can be established specifically for this species. Following a wintering period, mature broodstocks will naturally spawn and fertilize eggs when environmental conditions—such as water temperature between 24°C and 30°C—are favorable. The larvae then hatch and begin their developmental stage, requiring a suitable environment to grow properly.
Once more than 90% of the larvae have undergone metamorphosis into juvenile shrimp, the process of freshwater acclimation (desalination) can begin. Before desalinating, any unmetamorphosed juveniles in the tank should be removed and transferred to other nursery ponds of similar size for continued growth. During desalination, the water level in the tank is gradually lowered, fresh water is added at the shallow end, and brackish water is siphoned out from the opposite side. This process continues until all the water in the tank becomes fresh, typically taking 6 to 8 hours.
After desalination, the juvenile shrimp, which are about 0.7 to 0.8 cm in length, are still small and have limited feeding ability and disease resistance. They must go through a larval rearing phase that usually lasts about one month, during which they grow to 3 to 5 cm in length before being moved to the next rearing stage. These young shrimp can also be integrated into juvenile shrimp farming systems, using greenhouses or plastic tunnels for early incubation. By stocking them early, farmers can ensure that shrimp reach marketable sizes faster once outdoor pond temperatures become suitable. This approach helps produce larger, more competitive commercial shrimp, enhancing their value in the market.
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