The Squid, commonly known as the osmanthus Fish, is a high-value aquatic species that yields less per unit area compared to traditional fish varieties. However, its output value is ten times higher, and profit margins can be 4 to 13 times greater. In recent years, this unique fish has gained popularity among farmers, becoming a trending choice in specialized aquaculture. When raising squid in ponds, several key factors must be carefully considered to ensure successful cultivation.
First, selecting an appropriate pond environment is crucial. The ideal location should be sunny, sheltered, with a steady supply of clean, unpolluted water, and convenient drainage and irrigation systems. The soil should be loamy, low in silt, or newly dug. A pond size of 600 to 3,000 square meters with a depth of about 2 meters is suitable. It’s also recommended to install aerators and cultivate bait fish. Planting aquatic vegetation like water hyacinth and black-leaf algae around the pond helps provide hiding spots for fish and absorbs excess nutrients, improving overall water quality.
Second, the stocking size of carp should be between 5 to 6 cm. Since squid have specific feeding habits, it's important to maintain uniformity in the size of the stock to avoid stress and competition.
Third, stocking density plays a significant role in the success of the operation. A density of 800 to 1,200 fish per 467 square meters is generally appropriate, depending on pond conditions, food availability, and management practices.
Fourth, cultivating bait fish is essential when raising squid. A separate pond should be set up for bait fish, with a ratio of 1:4 between the main pond and the bait fish pond. Bait fish should be raised in multiple pools at different densities and harvested at different times to ensure a continuous supply. Species such as small carp, minnows, and other easily caught fish are typically used. Any uneaten bait fish or leftover food should be removed promptly to prevent water pollution. Monitoring the growth and size of bait fish is critical, and their density and feeding amount should be adjusted accordingly. The breeding density of bait fish is usually 6 to 8 times that of regular fry, with approximately 1 million tails per 467 square meters.
Fifth, feeding is a vital part of squid farming. Before stocking, bait fish should be cultivated for 15 to 20 days to ensure a ready food source. After stocking, feed should be provided daily, with enough bait to last 4 to 5 days. The size of the bait should be no more than one-third of the squid’s body length. Squid are most active during the evening, so feeding should be timed accordingly. During peak growth months (July to September), the feeding amount should be increased. In winter, feeding can be reduced slightly. Regular monitoring of squid growth is essential, and adjustments should be made if food supply is insufficient or unsuitable. The ratio of bait fish to squid should be maintained at 1:5 to 1:10, and some rapeseed cake can be added to support the growth of any uneaten bait fish.
Sixth, maintaining good water quality is critical due to the low tolerance of squid to hypoxia. Water should be fresh, non-polluted, and rich in dissolved oxygen. If using other water sources, they should be filtered and treated to remove harmful organisms. Regular water exchanges, aeration, and the use of lime can help maintain optimal conditions. Ideal water parameters include dissolved oxygen above 6 mg/L, water clarity of 30–40 cm, and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, all of which contribute to healthy growth and disease prevention.
Lastly, disease prevention is essential. Following the principle of "prevention first, treatment second," farmers should ensure that ponds are thoroughly cleaned before stocking. All fish, including bait fish, should be healthy and soaked in a 2% salt solution for 10 minutes before introduction. Avoiding injuries during handling and regularly checking for abnormal behavior are also important. During the high-risk period from May to October, applying 30 mg/L of lime or medicated feed can help prevent diseases. For bacterial and parasitic infections, treatments such as copper sulfate and ferrous sulfate mixtures (0.7 mg/L), formalin (0.2–0.4 mg/L), or bleach (1 mg/L) may be used, depending on the situation.
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