In aquaculture, there are primarily two types of fish food sources: natural bait and artificial compound feed. The latter is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of fish and has become a vital part of large-scale fish farming. With the growing variety of commercial feeds available, it's essential for farmers to choose the right feed and apply scientific feeding practices to maximize economic returns. This article will explore key considerations when using feed in aquaculture.
One of the most important factors affecting profitability is the relationship between feed cost and overall farming expenses. On average, feed accounts for 40% to 50% of total costs, sometimes reaching as high as 65%. While some may assume that lower-priced feed means lower costs, this isn't always the case. The real determinant of cost-effectiveness lies in both the feed price and the feed conversion ratio — the amount of feed required to produce a unit of fish growth.
For example, consider two feed options: Feed A has a higher feed conversion ratio but a lower price, while Feed B has a lower ratio but a higher cost. Let’s say you're raising 1,000 kg of fish with a feeding rate of 4%. For Feed A, with a conversion coefficient of 1.85, the daily weight gain would be approximately 21.62 kg. For Feed B, with a coefficient of 1.25, the daily gain would be around 32 kg. Over 100 days, Feed B would result in significantly more growth than Feed A. Additionally, to achieve the same weight gain, Feed B would take about 32.4% less time, making it more efficient.
Beyond choosing the right feed, proper feeding strategies are crucial. The quantity of feed should be calculated based on stocking density, expected growth rate, and the feed conversion ratio. A formula like “Feeding Amount = Stocking Weight × Growth Factor × Conversion Ratio†helps plan annual feed requirements, ensuring no shortages occur during peak growth periods, which usually happen from July to September.
Feeding schedules should also be adjusted according to seasonal changes. During summer, when water temperatures are higher, fish eat more frequently — often 5 to 6 times a day. From July to September, the fastest growth period, feeding 4 to 5 times a day is recommended. As water temperatures drop after October, feeding frequency should gradually decrease.
The timing, quantity, and location of feeding are all critical. Feeding should be done consistently, with each session lasting at least 20 minutes to ensure fish consume up to 80% of the feed without waste. It's also important to observe weather conditions, water quality, and fish behavior to adjust feeding practices accordingly.
In summary, achieving good economic results in aquaculture depends on using high-quality feed rather than just focusing on price. When resources and conditions allow, farmers should invest in premium feed and adopt scientifically sound feeding techniques. By doing so, they can improve productivity, reduce waste, and ultimately increase their profits.
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