Tra Vinh: Integrating Thai Nile tilapia in shrimp ponds with value chain support

Tilapia consumes leftover feed and organic waste, reducing water pollution and curbing the spread of Vibrio bacteria, the main cause of early mortality syndrome (EMS) in shrimp. Rotational farming of tilapia in shrimp ponds not only enhances environmental conditions but also provides an additional income stream for farmers, supporting household and community economic growth while preparing ponds for more successful future shrimp harvests.

Farmers now have access to high-performing tilapia strains such as Gift, Duong Nghiep, Thai Nile, and Genomar, which have been selectively bred for rapid growth, quality meat, and export potential. Businesses supply quality fingerlings, feed, and bio-products, primarily sourced from Tay Ninh, Tien Giang, Bac Lieu, and Soc Trang provinces, ensuring reliable support for aquaculture operations.

Taking advantage of the downtime between shrimp crops, Pham Van Hoang, an experienced shrimp farmer in Ba Tinh Hamlet, Long Hoa Commune, introduced 100,000 Thai Nile tilapia fingerlings into his ponds. Stocked at a density of 3 fish/m² and fed industrial feed with 32% protein twice daily, the tilapia have shown excellent growth and adaptability after 20 days. With a projected grow-out period of 4-5 months, the fish are expected to reach an average weight of 0.8–1.0 kg, yielding over 50 tons of marketable fish. Hoang has secured product buyouts through agreements with enterprises, ensuring stable market access.

Reports from the Agricultural Service and Technical Center of Chau Thanh District reveal that the district has approximately 650 hectares of shrimp ponds, presenting significant opportunities for rotational tilapia farming. This practice not only improves pond water quality but also boosts household incomes and contributes to local economic development.

VFM