Estudo da influência da densidade de estocagem na sobrevivência e crescimento de larvas de Camarão Tigre (Penaeus monodon, 1798) alimentada com ração comercial no distrito de Inhassunge - caso AQUAPESCA

Abstract

Sustainable aquaculture requires the optimization of farming systems that ensure high productivity without compromising organism health or environmental balance. In this context, stocking density is a key factor influencing productive performance, especially in the farming of black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon). This study evaluated the effect of four stocking densities (80, 160, 240, and 320 post-larvae per tank), with two replicates per treatment, on the growth and survival of P. monodon fed with commercial feed under experimental conditions at the Aquapesca company. The experiment lasted 30 days, with daily monitoring of water quality parameters (temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen), biweekly biometrics (mean weight and length), and the evaluation of zootechnical indices such as survival rate and specific growth rate. The mean values of water quality parameters, obtained from the replicates, were within the acceptable range for the species. Average temperatures ranged from 21.5 °C (320 PLs) to 22.5 °C (160 PLs); pH remained between 7.3 and 7.4; salinity ranged from 27.3 ppt (80 PLs) to 27.7 ppt (240 and 320 PLs); and dissolved oxygen varied from 8.7 mg/L (240 PLs) to 9.8 mg/L (80 PLs). The densities of 80 and 160 PLs showed the best survival rates (68.8% and 69.4%, respectively), while higher densities resulted in lower performance, likely due to increased stress and competition. The specific growth rate ranged from 2.5% to 4.35%, with better performance also at lower densities. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) among treatments, indicating that stocking density directly influences the zootechnical performance of the larvae. It is concluded that a density of 160 PLs represents the most favorable condition to optimize growth and survival of P. monodon in commercial feed-based culture systems, contributing to more efficient and sustainable farming practices at Aquapesca.