Four main points of loach breeding techniques
2025-07-20 11:29:25
Loaches are a highly nutritious fish that are widely appreciated by consumers, making them a promising product in the market. They are not very demanding when it comes to water quality, and can be farmed in various environments such as ponds, rice fields, ditches, and even Tiantou pits. This makes them an excellent option for rural development and a practical way for farmers to boost their income.
First, pond conditions should be carefully considered. The pond should be located near a water source for regular water changes. The ideal size is between 200 to 400 square meters, with a maximum of no more than one acre. The water depth should be around 40 to 50 centimeters, and the water should be slightly acidic to neutral. The pond bottom should be flat with minimal mud, and the walls should be compacted to prevent leaks or burrowing. A small fish collection pit, about 6 to 8 square meters, can be dug near the outlet to make harvesting easier.
Before stocking, the pond should be disinfected using quicklime and bleaching powder. Apply about 50 grams of quicklime per acre and 15 kilograms of bleaching powder, dissolved in water to cover the entire pond. This helps eliminate harmful pathogens and ensures a clean environment for the loaches.
Next, fry breeding requires careful selection. The breeding pond should have fish stock of about 40 to 50 individuals per square meter, with uniform size to avoid larger fish preying on smaller ones. The seedlings should be around 3 to 4 cm long. Before placing them in the pond, they should be dipped in a solution of malachite green at 8 mg/kg for 5 minutes to prevent fungal infections.
Feeding and management play a crucial role in successful loach farming. Loaches have a varied diet, including small aquatic animals, plants, microorganisms, and organic debris. Before planting, base fertilizer like livestock manure can be applied to enrich the water and promote natural food sources. Use about 10 to 15 kg of organic fertilizer per square meter.
In addition to natural food, artificial feed such as rice bran, soybean cake, wheat bran, and fermented by-products can be used. Feed amounts should be around 4% to 5% of the fish's body weight. When the water temperature is between 25°C and 28°C, loaches eat most actively, so feeding can be increased slightly to support faster growth. Feeding should be done in the evening, using designated feeding areas to ensure efficient consumption.
Regular pond monitoring is essential. When temperatures exceed 30°C, loaches tend to burrow into the mud to escape the heat, which can lead to suffocation due to low oxygen levels. In such cases, fresh water should be added regularly, and shade from plants like water hyacinth or duckweed should be provided. Routine inspections help identify and resolve issues quickly, ensuring a healthy growing environment.
For harvesting, two common methods are used. One is the flushing method, where a special fish net is placed near the water inlet. As water flows in, loaches naturally gather near the inlet, and the net is quickly lifted to capture them. This method is effective and efficient.
Another technique is the bait trapping method. A bamboo cage filled with fried wheat flour is placed around the pond, especially at night. Loaches are attracted to the bait and enter the cage, making this method particularly effective when the water temperature is between 25°C and 28°C.
Overall, loach farming offers a sustainable and profitable opportunity for farmers, especially in rural areas. With proper care and management, it can become a reliable source of income while contributing to local food security.
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