MicrotackDesign
AgedPond

Aged pond is typically refers to a pond that has been used for several cycles without being completely rehabilitated.
Aged ponds can have both advantages and challenges when it comes to shrimp cultivation.
•Advantages of Aged Ponds
  1. Over time, aged ponds develop complex microbial communities. These microbes can help break down organic waste, improving water quality and reducing the buildup of harmful compounds.
  2. The accumulation of organic matter can lead to a pond rich in nutrients, which can support the growth of natural food sources for the shrimp, such as plankton.

•Challenges of Aged Ponds

  1. Continuous use of the same pond can increase the risk of disease accumulation and transmission. Pathogens and parasites might build up in the pond, posing a higher risk to shrimp health.
  2. The sediment in aged ponds can become anaerobic (devoid of oxygen), releasing harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, which are detrimental to shrimp health.
  3. Over time, the water quality can degrade due to the accumulation of organic and inorganic matter, requiring more intensive management and potentially more frequent water exchanges.
  4. Regularly treating the water with lime or other chemical agents can help maintain pH levels but will not help reduce the impact of toxic compounds and pathogenic bacteria.
  5. Completely drying out the pond between cycles can kill harmful pathogens and break down very slightly amount of unwanted organic matter, and this isn't always feasible with back-to-back farming cycles.
Management Techniques

Chain Dragging:

  • Dragging a chain across the pond bottom with AQUAMIMICRY® Red Cap can help to aerate the sediment and mix the water, reducing the buildup of harmful gases and promoting healthier water conditions.

AQUAMIMICRY® Red Cap:

  • Introducing beneficial bacteria (probiotics) can help manage the microbial balance in the pond, breaking down harmful organic compounds and improving water quality.
For shrimp farmers, deciding whether to use an aged pond or to dry or rehabilitate a pond between cycles involves balancing these factors, considering both the economic and environmental impacts of each choice.