As a mountainous county, fishery production in small reservoirs has always been a key focus of our station's work. Enhancing the economic efficiency of these operations has remained a central topic of our research and development efforts. This article outlines several strategies aimed at improving the efficiency of fish breeding in small reservoirs, offering practical suggestions for local farmers and aquaculture practitioners.
I. Applying Pond Fish Farming Techniques in Reservoirs
Small reservoirs differ from large and medium-sized ones in terms of water area and depth, which limits their capacity for intensive fish farming. However, by adapting some successful techniques used in ponds, we have achieved significant improvements.
1. Thorough Cleaning and Disinfection
Each year, during the dry season, we fully drain the reservoir and apply 100 kg of quicklime per acre to disinfect the area. This not only reduces the risk of fish diseases but also helps eliminate wild fish, thereby increasing the survival rate of stocked species.
2. Timely Stocking of Fingerlings
The best time to stock fingerlings is just before and after the Chinese New Year, when water temperatures are low, and fish scales are tight. This makes handling and transportation easier and increases survival rates. Before stocking, fingerlings should be dipped in a 4% salt solution for 15 minutes to prevent disease.
3. Selecting High-Quality, Large-Sized Species
We prioritize stocking large-sized fingerlings, as they grow faster, are more resilient, and adapt better to the environment. For example, white bream, bonito, and grass carp should be stocked at around 9 tails per kilogram, while carps and squid should be under 15 tails per kilogram.
4. Reasonable Stocking Density
Stocking density must be adjusted based on the farmer’s experience, food availability, and fertilization practices. Without aerators, total stocking is usually kept between 500 and 600 fish per mu, with about 200–250 fish per mu for herbivorous species and 40–60 for carnivorous ones.
5. Full Stocking and Multiple Harvests
It is recommended to restock all at once and harvest multiple times throughout the season. Summer fish like white pelicans and bonito can be stocked early to ensure a steady supply for the next year.
6. Scientific Feeding and Management
Organic fertilizer, such as well-fermented pig or chicken manure, is applied at about 300 kg per acre. From April to October, it’s advisable to avoid organic fertilizer to reduce disease risks. Instead, inorganic fertilizers like ammonium and superphosphate are used at 3 kg per mu every 15 days. Concentrates such as soybean cake, wheat bran, and rice cakes are also fed according to fish needs and weather conditions.
7. Disease Prevention and Control
Prevention is key. Fish should be disinfected before stocking, and regular treatments with bleaching powder, dibromohydantoin, and other agents help control bacterial and parasitic diseases. Lime is also used to raise pH and improve water quality, typically 20 kg per acre, applied every 20 days. Prompt treatment is essential when diseases are detected.
II. Utilizing the Reservoir’s Low-Water Areas
Starting in October each year, as the water level drops, the exposed areas can be used for growing grass and crops. Sowing ryegrass and safflower seeds can yield over 1.5 tons of fresh grass per acre, which can feed up to 50 kg of herbivorous fish. This not only boosts income but also provides natural fertilizer for the reservoir.
Additionally, small areas like corners and culverts can be used to grow high-yield crops, producing over 80 kg per acre daily and providing continuous feed for herbivorous fish.
III. Breeding Fish in the Reservoir
By raising summer fish like white bream and squid, and using the low-water areas to breed food-eating species such as grass carp and squid, we can significantly increase survival rates and reduce costs.
IV. Integrated Livestock and Fish Farming
Integrating livestock with fish farming helps reduce costs and provides organic fertilizer. For instance, raising pigs and ducks alongside fish can improve water quality and enhance fish growth. Duck droppings enrich the water, promoting plankton growth and benefiting species like white bream and salmon.
By implementing these strategies, small reservoir fish farms can achieve greater productivity, sustainability, and profitability.
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