Fishpond Operations
Traditionally, fish fry are stocked in early spring, and most cultured species reach marketable size in 8 to 12 months.
Pond Drain-down and Fish Harvesting
When the fish have grown to a marketable size, fishpond operators lower the water level of the pond (pond drain-down) to harvest the fish.
Sun Drying of Fishpond
Fishpond operators drain the ponds to let them dry under the sun, which helps naturally disinfect the pond and remove harmful microorganisms in the pond.
Pond Profiling
Every 2 to 3 years, fishpond operators move the sediment at the pond bottom towards the pond bund to repair it and maintain an appropriate slope.
Water Quality Control
Fishpond operators need to monitor and control the water quality of the fishponds to maintain a healthy environment for pond fish cultivation:
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pH: pH affects the health and growth of fish. The water in fishponds should be maintained between pH 6 and 8.5. Fishpond operators usually adjust the pH with hydrated lime.
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Dissolved oxygen level: Oxygen is vital for fish survival. Dissolved oxygen should be maintained at above 4 mg/L for good water quality. Fishpond operators use aerators to increase the dissolved oxygen level in the water.
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Disinfection: After adding water into the fishpond, fishpond operators use tea seed powder for pond disinfection.
Feed
Fishpond operators feed the fish grass, bread, bean curd residue, or formulated feed according to the fish species and size.
