The feed coefficient, also known as the bait coefficient, is a key indicator in aquaculture that measures the amount of feed required to produce a unit of aquatic product. A lower feed coefficient means that less feed is needed to achieve the same level of growth or production, which directly translates into reduced feeding costs and higher economic returns for farmers. Therefore, minimizing the feed coefficient is a crucial objective throughout the entire aquaculture process.
To achieve this, several key strategies are essential. First, adopting advanced breeding techniques plays a vital role. For example, in freshwater aquaculture, the 80:20 system—where 80% of the fish population consists of high-quality species that consume the remaining 20%—has proven effective in improving efficiency. In marine environments, cage culture systems help optimize space and resource use. Similarly, in shrimp farming, using underwater ponds to cultivate plankton provides a natural food source, reducing reliance on artificial feed.
Second, selecting high-quality breeds with fast growth rates and efficient feed conversion ratios can significantly lower the feed coefficient. Studies show that purebred silver carp or virus-free shrimp have better survival and growth rates, leading to a more favorable feed-to-gain ratio. Similarly, crabs from the Yangtze River system tend to grow faster and require less feed compared to those from other regions.
Third, maintaining a healthy aquatic environment is fundamental. Ensuring clean water, adequate dissolved oxygen levels, and low concentrations of harmful gases are critical for optimal growth. For instance, when dissolved oxygen drops below 3.0 mg/L, the feed coefficient can increase fourfold. Water temperature fluctuations must also be carefully managed, as they directly affect the metabolic rate of aquatic organisms and their feed intake.
Fourth, proper stocking practices are essential. This includes determining the right density based on environmental conditions, ensuring the quality of stocked species, and avoiding overcrowding. Overstocking leads to poor water quality and increased feed consumption, while understocking wastes resources and reduces productivity. Additionally, managing interactions between different species helps prevent competition and improves feed utilization.
Fifth, the choice of feed is equally important. High-quality artificial feeds with appropriate particle sizes and nutritional balance are necessary. For example, small fish (10g) should be fed fine granules (0.5–1.5 mm), while larger fish (over 50g) require larger pellets. Shrimp and crab feeds also have specific size requirements. Proper feed formulation ensures better digestion and absorption, further reducing the feed coefficient.
Sixth, scientific feeding practices are crucial. Using the “Four Ding†method—feeding at fixed times, in fixed amounts, in fixed locations, and with fixed quality—helps maintain consistency and improve efficiency. Whether using manual or mechanical methods, careful attention to feeding patterns ensures that animals receive the right amount of food without waste.
Finally, proper feed storage and management are essential. Feeds should be used within their shelf life, checked for freshness, and stored in dry, cool conditions. Farmers without laboratory facilities can assess feed quality through visual inspection, touch, smell, and taste. These steps ensure that only high-quality feed is used, supporting the goal of reducing the feed coefficient.
In addition, natural food sources should not be overlooked. Cultivating algae, plankton, and other natural foods can supplement artificial feed, reducing overall feed costs. For example, in shrimp and crab farming, sufficient natural food can cut artificial feed usage by over one-third. In some cases, the feed coefficient can drop below 1.0, making it a valuable strategy for maximizing profitability.
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