Reap maximum benefits from fishfarming: Experts

Experts from Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) have said that it is the time for reaping maximum benefit from fish farming for those involved in the business.

Meera D Ansal of college of fisheries at GADVASU emphasised to provide sufficient comfortable zone to the fish below the surface layer, which got heated up far beyond optimum temperature range (28-32ºC). "Maintain six feet water depth and to mitigate heating up of water partial shading of pond with trees is recommended," she said.

"Oxygen is the most important issue to be addressed, which may fall to lethal levels, especially during dawn, due to enhanced biological activity in the pond. Hence, aerate the ponds during early hours of the day before sunrise, either by adding fresh water or by aerators." she added.

High oxygen content will keep the fish healthy and increase its food converting efficiency. If the fish come on the surface to gasp atmospheric air, provide aeration and also suspend manuring and feeding of fish.

"Partial water exchange improves water quality. Nutrient-rich pond water can be used to irrigate agricultural fields and fresh water can be added in the fish ponds. It will improve water quality in the pond and reduce fertiliser requirement for the crop," said Ansal, adding that for disease management, the golden rule is "prevention is better than cure".