RAS - Technology

Hyper-intensive systems for farming tropical shrimp: Which is the best method?

Brazil, October 22th, 2024 | A study compares three prawn farming systems: RAS, biofloc, and synbiotic

tanques cultivo langostinos en RAS

In recent years, intensive systems for farming aquatic species have gained importance as they align with modern aquaculture trends. These systems aim to maximise production in limited spaces, improve water-use efficiency, and reduce environmental impact, which is essential for the sustainability of commercial aquaculture.

In this context, a recent study conducted by the Federal University of Rio Grande in Brazil, in collaboration with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in the US, compared the efficiency and survival rates of three hyper-intensive farming systems for white shrimp in low salinity conditions: the recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), the biofloc system, and a synbiotic system that uses processed plant bran with probiotics to fertilise the water.

When comparing the systems, the researchers concluded that the synbiotic system is the most suitable for hyper-intensive farming of tropical white shrimp, due to its superior control of nitrogen compounds, enhanced growth of beneficial microorganisms, and overall better production performance compared to the other systems.

The biofloc system, meanwhile, showed a higher abundance of phytoplankton but was less efficient in controlling ammonia. The RAS system, on the other hand, provided good nitrogen compound control but delivered lower overall performance.

How can this be scaled to commercial levels?

The synbiotic system is a promising option for commercial scaling as it requires less technical infrastructure than RAS. However, managing large-scale production of probiotics and organic fertilisers (such as plant bran) will be necessary, which means implementing industrial fertilisation systems and water monitoring technologies.

Additionally, scaling any of these systems to a commercial level will require investment in advanced technology and adequate staff training.

Reference:

Pimentel, O. A. L. F., Schwarz, M. H., van Senten, J., Wasielesky, W., Urick, S., Carvalho, A., McAlhaney, E., Clarington, J., & Krummenauer, D. (2024). The super-intensive culture of Penaeus vannamei in low salinity water: A comparative study among recirculating aquaculture system, biofloc, and synbiotic systems. Aquaculture.

Related