Ca Mau: Improving the efficiency of striped snakehead fish farming
Researchers at Can Tho University have carried out a project on improving the efficiency of snakehead fish farming in the freshwater area of Ca Mau province, in order to solve difficulties, such as reduced quality of seed, high costs and low productivity (about 26.8 tons/ha).
Dried snakehead fish is a famous specialty of Ca Mau. Photo: CC
Currently, the farming area reaches nearly 150 hectares, mainly in U Minh and Tran Van Thoi, mainly based on experiences, natural food and little attention to health care, making it susceptible to disease when the weather is unfavorable.
To improve, the research team analyzed genetics, discovered that the natural fish population in Ca Mau was more diverse, then crossbred parent fish from Ca Mau and Dong Thap to create offspring with disease resistance and better conditions. In particular, the specialized farming model in three households achieved a yield of 30-44 tons/ha, much higher than the traditional method, with a survival rate of 38.5-68.9%. In addition, the model combining fish farming and rice cultivation also gave positive results, achieving a yield of 1.5-2.7 tons/ha.
Technical solutions, such as water quality control, fish health monitoring and the use of nutritious feed (protein 41%, lipid maximum 8.6%) help fish grow quickly, healthily and reduce feeding costs. Thanks to that, the project not only improves fish productivity and quality but also opens up a sustainable farming direction, bringing stable livelihoods and potential for fisheries development for local people.