California is a large, carnivorous freshwater fish that has gained popularity due to its high market value. Currently, the commercial price of California fish is around 24 yuan per kilogram, and farmers can achieve an average annual profit of over 6,000 yuan per acre in pond farming. With its strong adaptability, fast growth rate, resistance to disease, easy handling, delicious taste, and high nutritional value, California fish is considered one of the key species for efficient aquaculture. Additionally, because it is highly predatory and easily caught, it is also ideal for recreational fishing, making it a favorite among both farmers and consumers.
California fish can be raised in monoculture or in combination with other species, and even in floating cages. Farmers like Zhong Zhihong from Yankoupu Town, Shaoyang County, Hunan Province, have developed innovative techniques to cultivate this fish in high-quality, high-yield, and environmentally friendly ways, achieving significant economic benefits. Here are some practical technical points for farmers to refer to when raising California fish.
**First, Seed Cultivation**
1. **Cement Pond Cultivation**: The water depth should be about 1 meter. For fry with body length less than 1 cm, stock 150 per square meter; for 2–3 cm fry, 80 per square meter; and for 3 cm fry, 30 per square meter. Water quality must be excellent, with gentle water flow and proper management. Stocking density can be increased if conditions allow.
After hatching, fry begin feeding on rotifers and other live foods 3 days later. Feed 5–8 times daily, adjusting the amount based on leftover feed. After 6–8 days, when fry grow to over 1 cm, they can be fed small plankton like copepods. As they grow, gradually introduce larger food items such as silkworms and eventually switch to dead bait. When fry reach 5 cm, they can be moved to separate ponds for commercial use.
2. **Pond Cultivation**: Maintain a water depth of 1–1.3 meters. Fry are stocked after 7–10 days. Before stocking, disinfect the pond and use decomposed manure to enrich the water, keeping the transparency at around 25 cm. Stocking density should be 30,000–50,000 per mu.
Since California fish tend to fight and grow unevenly, regular sorting is essential to prevent cannibalism. Monitor fry size frequently and separate them accordingly.
**Second, Scientific Breeding**
1. **Pond Conditions**: Choose ponds with clean, abundant water, no pollution sources, good drainage, and convenient management. The bottom sludge should be about 20 cm thick, with a pond area of 1–5 acres and a water depth of 1.5–2 meters. Install oxygenation equipment and install fine mesh nets at inlets and outlets to prevent escape and filter debris. Maintain a steady flow of fresh water.
Before stocking, disinfect the pond to eliminate predators and pathogens.
2. **Stocking Density**: Select healthy, uniform-sized fish. Stock between May and June. For fish over 6 cm, stock 1,200–1,500 per acre. For those over 10 cm, 800–1,000 per acre. You can also introduce compatible species like carp or white bream to help control algae and improve water quality. Avoid aggressive species like catfish or eels that could harm California fish.
Before stocking, treat fingerlings with formalin (80 g per cubic meter) or 3% saline solution for 5–10 minutes to kill parasites.
3. **Daily Management**: Ensuring a consistent food supply is crucial. Use small fish, shrimp, or low-cost frozen fish, or artificial pellets. Initially, feed only after 2 days of stocking, as fish may not eat immediately. On day four, start training them by scattering small pieces of food and gradually increase the amount as they grow.
For pellet feed, ensure a protein content of 45–50%, with a ratio of animal to plant protein of 1:1.5–2. Once fish are accustomed, feed 4 times daily, then reduce to once in the afternoon. Adjust feeding based on weather, water temperature, and fish activity.
Maintain water clarity at around 40 cm, with sufficient dissolved oxygen. Change water every 10–15 days, replacing about 30% each time. Regularly inspect the pond and remove uneaten food and debris promptly.
**Third, Disease Prevention**
California fish are generally disease-resistant, but improper management can lead to issues. Common diseases include:
1. **Needleworm Infection**: Caused by parasitic worms, often affecting the fins. Treat by removing the worms and disinfecting the wound. Increase water changes to prevent spread.
2. **Blindness**: Caused by eye damage during handling. Handle carefully to avoid eye injury.
3. **Bacterial Disease**: Symptoms include darkened color, slow movement, and ulcers. Treat with bleach or 3% saline solution, and mix erythromycin into feed. Avoid using trichlorfon, which is toxic to California fish.
Preventive measures include regular water changes, maintaining good water quality, and using alternative medications instead of harmful insecticides. Always prioritize safe and effective practices to ensure the health and productivity of your fish farm.
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