Whiteleg shrimp (*Penaeus vannamei*) is one of the three most commercially significant shrimp species, with the highest global production. It is primarily found along the Pacific coast of the Americas, ranging from northern Peru to Sonora, Mexico, and is most concentrated along the coast of Ecuador. The optimal temperature for its growth is between 23°C and 30°C, while it stops growing when the temperature drops below 16°C. At temperatures below 9°C, the shrimp may die. In terms of salinity, *P. vannamei* thrives in a range of 2‰ to 40‰.
In recent years, *P. vannamei* has become a major focus in aquaculture due to its high market demand and profitability. After successful desalination trials, regions like Doumen and Xinhui in Guangdong have seen a surge in breeding efforts, importing white shrimp from South America. Based on field observations over the past two years and extensive literature review, the author has compiled key technical elements for successful *P. vannamei* farming, including shrimp selection, transportation, pond preparation, water management, and stocking practices.
**Shrimp Selection and Transportation**
Selecting healthy seedlings is crucial for successful farming. Only disease-free shrimps, particularly those free from viruses such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and Taro Leaf Blight Virus, should be chosen. Shrimps are typically sourced from Hainan and Zhanjiang, so purchasing from reputable farms with good water quality is essential. Healthy shrimp exhibit strong activity, clear bodies, and no signs of lesions or discoloration. During transport, oxygen levels must be maintained, and the density depends on time, size, and water conditions. Usually, 15,000 seedlings can be transported per bag under ideal conditions, with a maximum transport time of 10 hours at 18–26°C.
**Pond Preparation and Water Management**
The substrate quality is vital for *P. vannamei* farming. Excess organic matter at the bottom can lead to poor water quality and shrimp mortality. Experts recommend maintaining ammonia nitrogen below 0.5 ppm, nitrite nitrogen below 0.1 ppm, dissolved oxygen above 5 ppm, and hydrogen sulfide below 0.1 ppm. Before stocking, the pond should be cleared of silt and treated with 150 kg of quicklime. After dredging, the pond should be sun-dried. All harmful organisms and pathogens must be removed before introducing shrimp. A separate area with non-porous plastic nets can be used to cultivate plankton and dilute the water.
Water used for backfilling must be filtered and disinfected using lime, bleaching powder, or other disinfectants. This helps prevent contamination and ensures a clean environment for the shrimp.
**Desalination and Aquaculture**
Although *P. vannamei* can grow in freshwater, it requires gradual desalination. Seedlings should be acclimated to lower salinity levels over 10–15 days, starting from the level they were raised in. The ideal salinity for adult shrimp is 6‰–10‰. pH levels should remain between 8.0 and 8.6 during the larval stage.
**Feeding and Basic Bait Cultivation**
*P. vannamei* has high nutritional demands, especially during the early stages. After stocking, the water should be greenish-yellow or light brown, indicating sufficient plankton. Organic fertilizers like chicken, pig, and cow manure should be fermented and placed in fiber bags, while inorganic fertilizers such as urea and compound fertilizer are applied directly. The timing of bait cultivation depends on weather and temperature—typically 10–20 days in early spring and 7–10 days after May. Once the water turns green, it’s time to introduce seedlings. Adding beneficial bacteria can help maintain water quality and prevent diseases.
**Pre-Stocking Precautions**
- Stock only on sunny mornings or evenings, avoiding rainy days and midday.
- Ensure full stocking at once to avoid "kung-sun shrimp" (uneven growth).
- Maintain an appropriate density, generally 4–5 million per acre.
- Soak the shrimp bags in the pond for 30 minutes before releasing to equalize water temperature.
By following these best practices, farmers can significantly improve survival rates and overall productivity in *P. vannamei* aquaculture.
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