Shrimp farming and the RAS system

Shrimp is one of the most in demand crustaceans worldwide, which is why Derwent want to pay special attention and shed some light on the cultivation of one of the most consumed aquaculture products. There are more than 2000 species of shrimp, although only a few have shown great potential for cultivation and are those that are marketed worldwide. 

The species that are most cultivated today are Litopenaus vannamei and Penaeus monodon. Although it is true that there are other species that have been widely cultivated in the past, such as Fenneropenaeus chinensis and Marsupenaeus japonicus, these have been displaced due to problems with different pathologies, in addition to the fact that L.vannamei and P.monodon have shown genetic advantages in terms of growth rates and resistance, at the same time they present ease for the development of lines free of specific pathogens.

Currently there are different systems and techniques for shrimp farming. The tools available for farming continue to improve and evolve to increase the quality and sustainability of shrimp farming. Currently available growout technologies are evolving towards two main trends, in addition to traditional extensive pond culture, RAS systems and biofloc technology. These systems represent an evolution towards the reduction of water consumption, at the same time that they allow Derwent to move the production centers to the consumption areas, making the industry more sustainable by reducing the costs and effects of transport.

Derwent work to develop RAS systems for different aquaculture species, presenting a series of advantages over other systems, such as increased biosecurity and traceability and a significant improvement in production efficiency, with high densities and temporary production control. This allows better planning and access to the market according to the market needs. The main disadvantages are a higher initial investment cost and the need for technical experience in handling. Although with the evolution and cheaper technologies and the experience of companies such as Derwent and Dibaq, RAS technologies will be more present in the aquaculture market every day.

For more information visit the Derwent website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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