lautnusantara.comShrimp farming, especially of Litopenaeus vannamei (vannamei shrimp), is a high-value aquaculture sector that continues to grow in Indonesia. However, intensification in shrimp farming often faces challenges such as disease outbreaks, declining water quality, and microbial imbalance in ponds. One approach increasingly adopted to address these issues is the application of probiotics.
What Are Probiotics in Shrimp Farming?
Probiotics are live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, provide health benefits to the cultured organisms and improve the surrounding aquatic environment. In shrimp aquaculture, probiotics are typically beneficial bacteria added to water or feed to suppress pathogenic microbes, enhance water quality, and strengthen the shrimp’s immune system.
Benefits of Probiotic Application
Improved Shrimp Health
Probiotics help enhance shrimp resistance to diseases such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and bacterial infections caused by Vibrio species.
Enhanced Water Quality
Probiotic bacteria can break down organic compounds such as ammonia, nitrite, and other wastes, thereby reducing pollution and maintaining stable pond conditions.
Better Growth and Feed Efficiency
Probiotics aid in digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and reduce the feed conversion ratio (FCR), leading to more efficient growth.
Reduced Antibiotic Use
Probiotic use can lessen the need for antibiotics, minimizing the risk of antibiotic resistance and promoting safer food production.
Common Types of Probiotics Used
Bacillus spp.
Widely used to improve water quality and degrade organic matter.
Lactobacillus spp.
Helps maintain a balanced gut microbiota in shrimp.
Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter
Play a role in the nitrification process, converting toxic ammonia to less harmful nitrate.
Pseudomonas spp.
Potential biocontrol agents against pathogens.
Methods of Probiotic Application
Direct Water Application
Used to manage pond water quality and control environmental microbial balance.
Feed Supplementation
Aimed at improving gut health and boosting shrimp immunity.
Challenges and Limitations
Probiotic effectiveness depends on environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and salinity.
The quality of commercial probiotic products varies widely, making proper selection essential.
Many shrimp farmers still lack full understanding of probiotic usage and benefits.
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