There are two primary methods for catching eels: netting and draining. In larger ponds, netting is commonly used, while in smaller fish ponds or concrete structures, the water can be drained directly, and eels can be collected using specialized eel cages.
The netting method involves feeding the eels in a designated area until they gather around the food source. A net is then placed around this area to trap the eels. The captured eels are transferred into a long collection box, which should be positioned on the side of the pond for easy access. An aerator should be installed 3 to 5 meters away from the box to ensure proper oxygenation. Once the eels are placed inside the box, water flows through it continuously, maintaining good water quality and preventing suffocation due to overcrowding. Additionally, the nets should be regularly moved to keep the eels active and avoid them being crushed at the bottom of the net.
During summer and autumn, when temperatures are high, eels should be cooled with ice water to maintain an optimal temperature range of 15–20°C. This cooling process reduces their activity, making them easier to handle during sorting and minimizing injuries. It also speeds up the sorting process.
Sorting is typically done manually. After cooling, the eels are placed into a collection tray, and a small sliding door is opened to allow them to move slowly. Operators sort the eels according to size specifications, guiding each group into separate cages through designated channels. To help the eels swim toward the cages, the divider should be slightly angled toward the pond.
Several important considerations must be taken into account during the cultivation and handling of eels. First, breeding and selection should ideally occur on cloudy or rainy days, as the lower temperature and higher humidity reduce stress on the eels. If working in sunny weather, it’s best to do so early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid direct sunlight.
Second, sorting should aim for uniform size, especially when preparing for export. Clear samples that meet the required specifications should be placed on the sorter for operators to reference during the process.
Third, all sorting operations should be performed carefully and gently to avoid damaging the eels. Operators should move slowly and avoid any rough handling.
Lastly, after stocking and rearing, disinfection is generally not required unless there are visible wounds, signs of disease, or if the eels have been transported over long distances. In such cases, sulfa drugs are typically administered for 3–5 days, either directly or mixed into the feed.
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