In recent years, the lobster market has shown great potential, and farming lobsters artificially can bring significant economic returns. The author simulated a natural lobster environment by utilizing abandoned low-lying fields for aquaculture. With proper artificial feeding, the yield reached over 250 kg per 667 square meters (1 mu), and the net profit exceeded 1,300 yuan. With effective management, these profits can be further increased. Below are the key techniques used in this lobster farming project:
First, pond preparation is essential. A low-lying area near the embankment was selected, with sandy loam soil covering about 0.5 hectares. The water flow is stable, and after reinforcing the pond's height, it can hold up to 1.2 meters of water. Inlet and outlet systems are separated to ensure better control.
Before stocking, wild weeds were removed from the pond, and the area was left dry for two weeks. Then, lime was applied at a rate of 150 kg per 667 square meters to eliminate unwanted fish and bacteria. Afterward, beneficial aquatic plants such as water peanuts, Elodea, and goldfish were manually introduced. These plants not only provide shelter but also help maintain a healthy ecosystem for the lobsters.
Lobsters are known for their strong escape ability, similar to that of crabs. To prevent them from escaping, calcium-laminated plastic boards were used for pond walls, with a plastic strip cloth covering the middle. Water inlets and outlets were secured with fine mesh nets. Regular inspections of anti-escape facilities are crucial to avoid losses.
Before releasing the seedlings, the ponds were enriched with organic fertilizer and manure. This process, similar to what is done for fish farming, helps create a nutrient-rich environment. Initially, the water depth was kept around 50 cm, and it was gradually increased as the lobsters grew.
For stocking, fresh shrimp seedlings were purchased from local markets and nearby areas. On March 5, 10 kg of 2.5 cm shrimp were stocked; on March 10, 15 kg of 3 cm shrimp; on March 15, 222 kg of 3.5 cm shrimp; and on March 18, 365 kg of shrimp. Before stocking, dead or soft-shelled seedlings were treated with a 40 g/l saline solution for 10 minutes to kill surface bacteria and parasites.
Feeding began in mid-March, starting with fresh bean dregs and rice bran. From May to September, fresh fish, pumpkins, and green vegetables were provided. Lobsters were fed 5–10% of their body weight based on their activity and appetite. Fish was cut into small pieces, and pumpkins were sliced into strips to make it easier for lobsters to eat. Any leftover food was promptly removed to avoid water pollution.
Water quality must remain "fat, live, tender, and cool." In the early stages, the water color was yellow-green or dark brown, with a transparency of about 30 cm. If the transparency decreased, more water was added, and a partial water change was performed every half month. During summer, the transparency was maintained around 40 cm, with a water level of 1.2 meters and 50% coverage of aquatic plants. The pH was kept between 7.5 and 8.
Disease prevention focused on regular water changes. Lime was applied twice during the breeding period, and garlic was fed six times in the summer. No major diseases were observed.
Throughout the cultivation period, daily pond inspections were conducted to monitor lobster behavior, feeding habits, and growth. Special attention was given to the water inlets and escape prevention systems. Since lobsters have strong burrowing and climbing abilities, external patrols were necessary.
Finally, harvesting began at the end of May. Lobsters were harvested when they reached sizes of 20–25 grams per individual. Small individuals were caught using traps, and shrimps were collected every 4–8 hours to avoid damage to the traps or aggressive behavior among lobsters. A total of 1,830 kg of lobsters were harvested, sold at an average price of 16 yuan/kg, generating a revenue of 29.28 million yuan. Total costs amounted to 19.53 million yuan, resulting in a profit of 9.75 million yuan.
Lobsters are highly adaptable in the wild, but under artificial high-density conditions, they become more sensitive. Three key points must be emphasized: (1) regular pond patrols are essential due to their strong burrowing and climbing abilities, making escape prevention critical; (2) feeding should match the growth stage and size of the lobsters; (3) selective harvesting of large and small lobsters can improve overall efficiency and profitability.
Sanitary Valve,Angle Seat Valve,Sampling Valve,Pneumatic Diaphragm Valve
Wenzhou Gaoya Light Industry Machinery Co.,ltd. , https://www.hongyafitting.com