Evaluation of feeding table optimizations in Pacific white shrimp nursery biofloc systems

Abstract

A 45-day experiment was conducted to optimize feeding rates in the nursery phase of Pacific white shrimp reared in biofloc systems (BFT). Four treatments were evaluated in quadruplicate, according to the Van Wyk table: maximum feeding rate; minimum feeding rate; minimum feeding rate minus 10%; and maximum feeding rate plus 10%. Post-larvae (0.08 ± 0.00 g) were cultured at the density of 2,000 shrimp·m-3, and water quality, solids production, and productive performance were all monitored. No significant difference was observed in final mean weight (1.47 ± 0.17 g), productivity (2.34 ± 0.20 kg·m-3) and survival (85.29 ± 5.44%) among treatments, but feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in the minimum feeding rate and minimum feeding rate minus 10% treatments, indicating efficient feed conversion without compromising growth. These treatments also resulted in lower values of toxic nitrogen compounds and total suspended solids, suggesting a positive impact on water quality. Although these rates proved suitable, continuous adjustments are needed owing to variations in the BFT system. This study provides guidelines for optimizing feeding management in superintensive BFT nursery systems.