The Squid, also known as osmanthus Fish, is a high-value aquatic species that yields less per unit area compared to regular fish but offers significantly higher profitability. Its output value is about 10 times greater, and profit margins can be 4 to 13 times higher. As a result, it has become a popular choice among farmers, gaining popularity as a special aquaculture species. When raising squid in ponds, several key factors must be considered to ensure successful breeding.
First, pond selection is crucial. The ideal location should be sunny, sheltered, with a reliable water source, clean water, and good drainage and irrigation systems. The pond should be made of loamy soil, not too silty, or newly dug. A suitable size ranges from 600 to 3000 square meters, with a depth of approximately 2 meters. It's recommended to install aerators and cultivate bait fish. Aquatic plants like beard grass and black-leaf algae should be planted around the pond to provide hiding spots for carp and help absorb excess nutrients.
Second, when stocking squid fry, the size should be between 5 to 6 cm. Due to their feeding habits, it's important to maintain uniform size among the stock to avoid competition and stress.
Third, stocking density plays a major role in the success of squid farming. A typical range is 800 to 1200 fish per 467 square meters, depending on the pond conditions and available bait fish.
Fourth, cultivating bait fish is essential. A separate pond should be dedicated to growing bait fish, with a ratio of 1:4 between the main pond and the bait pond. Bait fish should be raised at different densities and harvested at various times to ensure a continuous supply. Common choices include small fish like minnows, which are easy for squid to eat. Any uneaten bait should be removed to prevent water quality degradation. Monitoring the growth of bait fish regularly ensures they meet the required size for squid consumption.
Fifth, feeding practices must be carefully managed. About 15 to 20 days before stocking, bait fish should be cultivated to ensure availability. After stocking, feed fish should be introduced immediately. The bait size should be 1/4 to 1/3 the length of the squid, and the body height should be smaller than the squid’s mouth. Squid tend to hunt actively at night, especially around 8 PM. Feeding once daily with enough food to last 4–5 days is ideal. Overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to high mortality rates. During peak growth months (July–September), the feeding amount should be increased, while it can be reduced in winter. Regular monitoring of squid growth helps adjust feeding accordingly. The ratio of bait fish to squid should be around 1:5–10, and some rapeseed cake should be added to support the growth of any leftover bait fish.
Sixth, water quality management is critical. Squid have low tolerance for low oxygen levels, so maintaining high dissolved oxygen is essential. Water sources should be clean, non-polluted, and rich in oxygen. If other water sources are used, sedimentation and filtration are necessary. Measures such as controlling stocking density, water exchange, using aerators, and adding lime can help maintain good water quality. Ideal parameters include dissolved oxygen above 6 mg/L, water clarity of 30–40 cm, and a neutral or slightly alkaline pH, all of which promote healthy growth and disease prevention.
Lastly, disease prevention is vital. Following the principle of "prevention first, treatment when needed" is essential. Before stocking, ponds should be thoroughly cleaned, and all fish, including bait fish, should be inspected for health and soaked in a 2% salt solution for 10 minutes. Avoiding physical injuries during handling is important. If abnormal behavior is observed, immediate action should be taken. During the epidemic season (May–October), regular treatments such as applying 30 mg/L lime or medicated bait can help prevent diseases. For bacterial and parasitic infections, solutions like 0.7 mg/L copper sulfate and ferrous sulfate (in a 5:2 ratio), 0.2–0.4 mg/L exoporant, 1 mg/L bleach, or 10 mg/L marlin can be effective. Proactive care and attention to detail are key to successful squid farming.
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