Application of sludge collector in super-intensive Vannamei shrimp farms

Abstract

The solid organic waste load that is formed during the vannamei shrimp cultivation process is a problem that must be overcome because it triggers water quality deterioration and the emergence of shrimp disease. The sludge collector is designed to accommodate a load of the solid waste easily removed from the pond environment during the cultivation process. This study evaluates the performance of two types of pond outlets on water quality and shrimp production performance. Two concrete pond plots with an area of 1000 m2 each were used in this study. The treatments applied are the Sludge Collector and Central Drain solar model as outlet facilities located in the middle of the pond. The stocking density of the fry is 500 PL/m2 and is maintained for 92 days. According to the feeding program, 38-36% crude protein content is given eight times daily. The water exchange was carried out in the morning and evening. The application of additives in the form of lime, molasses, and probiotics into the ponds was adjusted to the needs and development of pond water quality conditions. The parameters measured consisted of water quality, total bacteria, total hematocyte count, prophenoloxidase (proPO), growth, survival rate, production, feed conversion ratio, and analysis of shrimp production costs. Data is analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study results show that the Sludge Collector application in super-intensive ponds has better water quality (total ammonia nitrogen, nitrite, nitrate, and total suspended solid performance due to the cleaner sludge disposal system to maintain water quality conditions suitable for the life of vannamei shrimp. This response is in line with the performance of THC and proPO in shrimp in Sludge Collector ponds that have a lower stress level than in Central Drain ponds. The sludge Collector application resulted in an 8.25% higher gain than the Sludge Collector treatment with a larger shrimp size.