Maintaining water quality in shrimp ponds is a crucial factor in shrimp farming, especially controlling pH. The ideal pH ranges from 7.8 to 8.5, but it can rise due to excess feed and the strong growth of phytoplankton. When pH exceeds 10, ammonia can convert into a toxic form, seriously affecting shrimp health.
So how can pH in shrimp ponds be effectively controlled and reduced? Below are some important methods to help maintain a stable water environment.
1. PROPER WATER EXCHANGE
Water exchange helps adjust pH and reduce accumulated toxins in the pond. If pH fluctuates too much (more than 0.5 per day), about 10 - 20% of the pond water should be replaced. In cases where pH is high due to excess ammonia, the water exchange rate may increase to 25 - 50%.
To achieve maximum effectiveness, the new water must be tested for quality and treated before being introduced into the pond. It is recommended to use Kill-Algae to eliminate harmful algae, reduce excessive phytoplankton growth, and help control pH in the pond. The water exchange process should be carried out gradually to avoid shocking the shrimp.
2. CONTROL PHYTOPLANKTON DENSITY
Excessive phytoplankton growth can cause pH to rise during the day. Farmers can limit this situation by:
- Siphoning pond bottom sludge to remove settled organic matter.
- Adjusting light intensity in the pond by using netting or shade systems.
- Using beneficial microorganisms such as Enter lactyl, which helps balance the microbiota, limit uncontrolled algae growth, and improve water quality.
3. MANAGE FEEDING AMOUNTS PROPERLY
Excess feed is one of the causes of increased ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels in the water, leading to high pH. Farmers should:
- Adjust feed amounts according to the shrimp’s growth stage.
- Regularly check feed trays to adjust feeding amounts appropriately.
- Use feed with good digestibility to minimize waste.
4. ADD BENEFICIAL MICROORGANISMS
Beneficial bacteria help break down ammonia and nitrite and stabilize the pond microbiota. Periodic supplementation of microorganisms helps maintain biological balance, naturally reduce pH, and limit excessive algae growth. Probio E.M – a product containing concentrated microorganisms from Vemedim, is an effective solution that helps prevent the formation of toxic gases, improve the pond environment, and reduce the accumulation of harmful substances.
5. USE A POND LINER
If the pond is built on acid sulfate soil, minerals from the soil can increase the water pH. Lining the pond bottom with a tarp helps limit this situation while creating a more stable environment for shrimp to grow.
6. CONCLUSION
Controlling pH in shrimp ponds not only helps shrimp grow well but also reduces the risk of disease and improves productivity. By combining measures such as proper water exchange, feed management, phytoplankton control, microorganism supplementation, and pond lining, farmers can maintain a stable pond environment, helping shrimp grow healthily and achieve high economic efficiency.
