The Mud Snail, commonly known as Huangluo, is a highly valued edible shellfish found in the East and South China Seas. It thrives in muddy subtidal environments and is prized for its delicious and nutritious meat, making it an economically important species. However, due to overfishing, natural populations have declined significantly in recent years, prompting the development of artificial breeding techniques. Since 2004, the author has been conducting research on purse seine aquaculture in the Beigang shallow waters of Yuzhou Town, Zhanjiang City, Guangdong Province. Over the course of several years, a total of 8 mu (approximately 0.53 hectares) were cultivated using this method, achieving an average yield of 1,100 kg per mu and a profit of about 65,000 yuan per mu. This successful model has proven to be both environmentally sustainable and economically viable. Below are key technical details that may be useful for other aquaculturists.
First, the selection and preparation of the shoal area is crucial. Ideal locations are those affected by typhoons, as these areas tend to have better water flow and less organic sediment buildup. The beach surface should be sandy, with a sand content of around 70%, and the long-wave drying time should be between 1 to 2 hours. Salinity should be above 14‰ and up to 34‰, with no fresh water inflow. Before stocking, the beach must be leveled mechanically, and predators such as crabs and small fish should be manually removed. Afterward, the area is treated with high concentrations of bleaching powder or lime to disinfect the environment, and seedlings can be introduced one week later.
Second, setting up the fence is essential for containing the snails. The fence consists of two layers, 60 cm in height, with a spacing of 80 cm between them. The netting is made of polyethylene with a mesh size of 0.6 cm and a width of 100 cm. Polyethylene ropes with a diameter of 8 cm are used to secure the net at the top and bottom, and the net is embedded 40 cm into the seabed. Net poles are placed every 150 cm, using pine wood that is 150 cm long with a small end diameter of 6 cm. These are inserted 60 cm into the beach to form a square enclosure of 20m x 20m.
Third, seedling selection and transportation are critical. Healthy seedlings, raised in the same year, should be selected based on their size and vitality. Spiral seedlings should be over 1 cm in length, with bright and lively shells. For transport, a dry method is recommended, with each mesh bag holding 0.5 kg of seedlings inside a foam insulation box. For long-distance transport, oxygen and ice should be added to maintain quality. Upon arrival, survival rates typically exceed 99%.
Fourth, during the breeding phase, feeding is done with fresh sea fish, crabs, and shrimp. The feed amount is 5% to 10% of the snail’s body weight, adjusted according to consumption. Feeding occurs at low tide when the water level inside the fence is between 20 cm and 40 cm. If the water level is too high, food may drift out, leading to waste and escape of the snails. Before feeding, any leftover bait should be removed. Regular monitoring of the snails’ behavior helps detect any abnormalities early, and the facilities should be inspected frequently to prevent blockages and ensure smooth water circulation.
Fifth, disease prevention is key. The site should be chosen away from pollution sources, with good water flow and quality. Feed amounts should be carefully managed, and fresh food is preferred. During hot seasons, leftover bait should be removed promptly to reduce bacterial growth. Monthly disinfection using dibromohydantoin or bromochloroheine is recommended. During typhoon season, nets should be reinforced, and after storms, the beach should be leveled to prevent damage.
Finally, harvesting takes place after one year of cultivation, when the snails reach 160 grains per kilogram. Large catches can be made using crab traps, while smaller quantities can be collected during low tide after feeding, when the snails come out to feed. Once harvested, the snails are washed with seawater, drained, and packed in foam boxes for dry transport. In hot weather, ice is added to keep them fresh. Transportation should not exceed 24 hours, and direct sunlight should be avoided during transit.
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