California is a carnivorous freshwater fish known for its high market value, currently priced at around 24 yuan per kilogram. Farmers can achieve an annual profit of over 6,000 yuan per acre in pond farming. With strong adaptability, fast growth, disease resistance, and excellent taste, California salmon has become a popular choice for efficient aquaculture. Its delicious flavor and high nutritional value also make it highly sought after by consumers. Additionally, due to its aggressive feeding behavior, it's ideal for recreational fishing, making it a favorite among both farmers and anglers.
California salmon can be farmed in monoculture or in combination with other species, and even in cages. A group of experienced farmers, such as Zhong Zhihong from Yankoupu Town in Shaoyang County, Hunan Province, have developed innovative techniques to maximize yield while maintaining ecological balance, achieving impressive results. Below are detailed operational steps for farmers to follow.
**First, Seed Cultivation**
1. **Cement Pond Cultivation**: Water depth should be about 1 meter. Stocking density varies depending on the size of the fry: 150 seedlings (less than 1 cm), 80 seedlings (2-3 cm), and 30 seedlings (over 3 cm) per square meter. Good water quality, micro-flowing water, and proper management allow for increased stocking density.
After hatching, fry begin feeding on rotifers and other live feeds 3 days post-hatch, 5–8 times daily. As they grow, transition to small plankton, copepods, and eventually chopped fish. Once they reach 5 cm, they can be moved to a separate pond for commercial production.
2. **Pond Cultivation**: Maintain a water depth of 1–1.3 meters. Fry should be introduced 7–10 days after hatching. After disinfecting the pond, apply decomposed manure to promote plankton growth. Keep water transparency around 25 cm and stock 30,000–50,000 fry per mu.
Due to their tendency to cannibalize, regular sorting is essential to ensure uniform growth.
**Second, Scientific Breeding**
1. **Pond Conditions**: Ponds should have clean, unpolluted water, good drainage, and oxygenation systems. The bottom sludge should be about 20 cm thick, with a depth of 1.5–2 meters and an area of 1–5 acres. Inlet and outlet screens are necessary to prevent escape and filter debris.
2. **Stocking Density**: Healthy, large, and uniform fish should be stocked between May and June. For 6 cm fish, 1200–1500 per acre; for 10 cm fish, 800–1000 per acre. Small fish like carp or white bream can be added to help control algae and improve water quality. Avoid aggressive species like catfish or eels that may harm California salmon.
Before stocking, treat the water with formalin or 3% salt solution to eliminate parasites.
3. **Daily Management**: Feeding is critical. Initially, feed small fish, shrimp, or frozen fish. After stocking, avoid immediate feeding as fish may not eat right away. By day 4, start training them to eat. Use small pieces of fish and gradually increase the amount as they grow.
Pellet feed should contain 45–50% protein, with a 1:1.5–2 ratio of animal to plant protein. Feed 4 times daily, reducing to once in the afternoon as fish adapt. Adjust feeding based on water temperature and fish activity.
Maintain water clarity at 40 cm and ensure high dissolved oxygen levels. Change water every 10–15 days, replacing about 30% each time. Regularly inspect ponds and remove uneaten food promptly.
**Third, Disease Prevention**
California salmon is generally disease-resistant, but improper management can lead to issues. Common diseases include:
1. **Needleworms**: Caused by parasitic worms. Affected areas show redness and reduced appetite. Remove the worms and disinfect the wound. Increase water changes to prevent spread.
2. **Blindness**: Caused by eye damage during handling. Handle carefully to avoid injury.
3. **Bacterial Disease**: Symptoms include darkened color, slow movement, and ulcers. Treat with bleach or 3% salt solution for 10–15 minutes. Combine with erythromycin in feed for 6 days. Avoid using trichlorfon, which is toxic to California salmon. Use alternative medications instead.
By following these practices, farmers can successfully raise California salmon with high yields and minimal losses.
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