Scampi post larvae sourcing and stocking.
2 Answers
Buy scampi post larvae from a reputed registered hatchery that produces healthy, uniform seed, since quality seed reduces losses and uneven growth. Acclimatise the PL carefully before release. Stocking density is lower than vannamei because scampi are territorial and grow unevenly if crowded, so do not overstock. The right density depends on whether you farm scampi alone or with fish, your aeration and your water quality, so follow the density advised for your system rather than a generic number. Your state Fisheries department can list approved hatcheries and advise the suitable stocking rate for your pond and method. Good seed plus correct density gives more big, high value prawns at harvest.
Overstocking scampi backfired for me, lots of small uneven prawns. Lower density gave me bigger prawns that sold for a much better rate. Get seed from a known hatchery.