Freshwater
Shrimp
Freshwater
shrimp or prawns have been raised for years in the southeastern
United States. In recent years, Mississippi State University
and The University of Kentucky have done extensive studies
on growing freshwater shrimp. Initially, the economic
feasibility of pond growing shrimp was in question, due
to inconsistent and/or poor yields. Thanks to some persistent
growers and researchers many of the early problems have
been identified and overcome. It is now possible for shrimp
to be pond raised successfully and profitably. |
The economics
of growing shrimp can vary greatly. We highly recommend anyone
interested contact a veteran in the field to ensure your plan
will work.
The requirements for growing shrimp are:
1)
Earthen pond, ideally between 0.10 and 1.0 acre. It has been
shown that the smaller, easier to manage ponds consistently
produce more shrimp on a pound per acre basis. The pond should
be drained prior to stocking to ensure there are no fish or
other potential predators left. The pond should be sloped to
one end to allow for complete drainage, as this will be necessary
to harvest the shrimp. Prior to stocking the pond should be
limed according to the acidity of the soil.
2) Pond
aeration. This is a must as you will have approximately 1,000
lbs. of biomas per water acre in your pond near harvest time.
Aeration can be accomplished thru commercial pond aerators,
pumps or air compressors with air stones.
3) Substrate
has become a necessary addition to achieve optimum yields. Many
forms have used but one of the most cost effective has been
the orange construction fencing or plastic bird netting bunched
up and strung across the pond.
4) Feeding
a commercially prepared sinking feed with a corresponding feeding
chart to determine the proper amount of feed each week.
We will be available to consult with our customers at all stages
of the grow out and encourage any novice farmers to ask any
and all questions.
Freshwater
Shrimp Price (Effective for 2007) |
30
Day Old Juveniles |
$65.00
per 1,000 |
60
Day Old Juveniles |
$85.00
per 1,000 |
Reservations
are required prior to March 1, 2007. We DO
NOT plan on holding reserves this year.
Suggested Stocking Rate is between 12,000
and 16,000 per water surface acre.
Delivery
is available and will be booked on a first come first serve
basis. Delivery charge is $1 per loaded mile.
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