December 28, 2020

Shrimp survivability questioned after cyclones hit Andhra Pradesh, India

Soon after Cyclone Nivar hit the Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh state, farmers have raised concerns about shrimp survivability in their ponds. Aquaculture experts say shrimp are vulnerable to the white spot syndrome virus due to decreased temperatures even during daytime.

Farmers have been cultivating Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp in around 20,000 hectares across the district.

The majority of ponds that were in harvesting stage in Indukurupeta, Kavali, Kovur and in Vidavaluru, and Bogole mandals were severely affected due to the torrential rains. Typically, shrimp cultivation in pond requires aerators and sunlight support. Strong gales interrupted power supply in the rural areas.

An aquaculture expert from Muthukur Dr. Haribabu says the farmers have to take preventive measures for maintaining salinity levels in vannamei ponds. Vitamin C levels in the feed should be observed during these days for preventing disease. Farmers have to clean the ponds periodically for avoiding disease spread.

"I have cultivated L. vannamei in around nine acres. Now, the growth of the shrimp has impacted for the last one month due to low temperatures. The coastal mandals have received a huge rainfall with the recent cyclones. We have been spending additional cost for cultivation for feeding of shrimp to avoid spread of white spot disease," says K Ranga Reddy, a farmer from Indukurpet mandal.

Following cases of white spot syndrome in shrimp, farmers in the region have started cutting shrimp production.

Source: www.fis.com