California squid, commonly known as the bigmouth bass, is a highly favored fish in aquaculture due to its rapid growth, strong adaptability, low disease incidence, and ease of capture. Its meat is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients, making it a popular choice among both farmers and consumers. The market price typically exceeds 40 yuan per kilogram, offering high economic returns. This species can be farmed across various regions in China, and whether raised alone or in combination with other species, it can achieve high yields and efficiency. Therefore, it serves as an important target for adjusting freshwater aquaculture structures and promoting high-quality, high-efficiency fisheries.
However, the feeding and management requirements vary during different growth stages. To maximize yield and efficiency, it is essential to master the breeding techniques at each stage.
During the broodstock incubation phase, California squid live in the upper water layer and often hide among aquatic plants. They require a minimum dissolved oxygen level of 1.5 mg/L, and they can survive in a wide temperature range from 1°C to 36°C. Feeding should begin when the water temperature is above 10°C, with optimal growth occurring between 20°C and 30°C. As a carnivorous species, they prefer small fish, shrimp, and aquatic insects. In artificial breeding, chopped trash fish can be used, and after domestication, they can also be fed pellet feed. Sexual maturity usually occurs at two years of age, with spawning taking place from February to July, peaking in April. Broodstock preparation is crucial before breeding.
Broodstock pools are typically square concrete ponds ranging from 1 to 2 mu (about 0.67 to 1.33 acres) with a depth of over 1.5 meters. A good water source, clean water quality, and convenient drainage and ventilation are essential. Before stocking, the pond must be thoroughly cleaned and refilled with fresh water.
Selecting broodstock involves choosing healthy, large, and mature individuals. Fish with smooth skin, neat scales, intact fins, and no signs of disease are preferred. After selection, they are placed into the broodstock pond for further cultivation.
Broodstock feeding primarily consists of live small fish, shrimp, or fish lumps. If these are scarce, compound feed can be used. It's important to feed small amounts frequently, remove leftovers promptly, and replace water regularly to promote gonad development. Oxygen aerators may be used if necessary. When ready to spawn, the mature broodstock is moved to the spawning pool, with about 2 to 3 square meters allocated per group.
After hatching, the fry are translucent and about 0.7 cm long, swimming in groups. By the third day, they absorb the yolk sac and start feeding on chlorella and rotifers. Later, they consume zooplankton such as cladocerans and copepods. Once they can swim independently, they are transferred to specialized fry ponds. These ponds have a water depth of 0.8 to 1 meter, with approximately 30,000 to 50,000 fry per acre. Fry from the same batch should be stocked together to ensure uniform size and prevent cannibalism. Initially, they are fed rotifers and leeches, and later red worms and artificial feed. After one month, they grow to about 3–4 cm and are ready for the next stage.
In the adult fish farming stage, the key principles are “reasonable stocking, scientific feeding, and strengthening management†to achieve high yields and efficiency.
For main pond farming, ponds of 1 to 2 mu with a depth of 1.5 m or more are suitable. Water sources must be abundant, with good quality and convenient drainage. The pond bottom should be loamy, and an aerator is recommended. Stocking density is around 2000 fish per acre, and additional species like tilapia, snails, and grass carp can be added to control algae and maintain water quality.
Intensive pond systems, suitable for 50 to 100 square meters, can use either soil or cement pools. The bottom should be loamy, and drainage and irrigation outlets should be opposite to create a gentle water flow. Stocking density is generally 30 to 40 fish per square meter, with consistent sizes within the same pool.
Polyculture in adult fish ponds allows for mixed farming. Medium to low-yield ponds are ideal, with 20 to 50 California squid per acre. If artificial feeding is used, up to 80 to 100 fish per acre can be stocked. After 5 to 6 months, the fish reach 200–300 g per fish, yielding 5–15 kg per acre. Due to their high market value, maximizing survival during transport and harvesting is critical.
Feeding is crucial for successful breeding. California squid are carnivorous and prefer small fish, shrimp, and aquatic insects. Chopped trash fish or compound feed can be used. Common feeding methods include cultivating seedlings in fish ponds, raising fish in part of the pond, purchasing wild fish, or using commercial feed. Live fish should be fed at 2–3 times the stock amount, while dead fish require acclimation. Bait should be cut into small pieces and thrown from a height to attract the fish. Artificial feed should contain 45–50% crude protein, and feeding frequency is twice daily, with 10–15% of body weight per day when water temperatures are between 20–25°C.
Effective management includes regular water quality monitoring, timely water level adjustments, and disease prevention. Water should be changed every 10–15 days, with one-third of the water replaced each time to maintain clarity around 40 cm. Water levels should be adjusted based on seasonal changes, increasing in summer to provide more space. A quiet environment is essential, with minimal disturbance and regular cleaning of the pond. Disease prevention includes salt baths for fungal infections, careful handling to avoid eye injuries, and the use of Trichlorfon for parasitic diseases. With proper care, California squid can thrive and deliver excellent results in aquaculture.
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