Cage culture of predatory fish involves raising various species other than plankton-feeding fish, primarily carp, in enclosures. This includes fish like grass carp, silver carp, tilapia, and others such as eel, squid, and catfish. Cage farming is popular among fish farmers due to its high efficiency, good output, and significant economic returns. However, successful cage fish farming requires careful daily management, which includes several key aspects.
Feeding is one of the most important parts of cage fish farming. Most farmers use compound feed, which can be either self-prepared or purchased from the market. The choice of feed should be based on the type of fish being raised. Feeding frequency and quantity must be adjusted according to factors like fish species, season, water temperature, water quality, and weather conditions. Typically, fish are fed 6–8 times a day, with an amount equal to 2–7% of their body weight each day.
Regular inspection of the cages is also crucial. Before placing the cages in the water, they should be carefully checked for any damage. After stocking the fish, another inspection is necessary to ensure that the cages are intact and secure. Anti-escape checks are usually done in the evening and early morning, while anti-theft checks are more common during the later stages of farming, especially before harvesting. After storms or floods, temporary inspections should be carried out immediately.
Cleaning the cage nets is essential to maintain water quality. Within a few days of submerging the cages, algae and debris tend to accumulate, clogging the mesh and reducing water exchange. This can lead to low oxygen levels and poor feeding conditions, which may harm the fish. Regular cleaning by lifting the net, rubbing it by hand, or swaying it in the water helps keep the cages functional. Mechanical, chemical, or biological cleaning methods can also be used, but care must be taken not to damage the netting.
Moving the cages regularly is important to adapt to changing water levels and environmental conditions. As water levels fluctuate, the position of the cages should be adjusted to avoid unfavorable conditions and provide optimal growth areas.
During extreme weather events like storms or floods, special attention must be given to cage stability. High winds and heavy rains can cause cages to tip over or become submerged. Before bad weather strikes, all structures should be inspected and reinforced if needed. Fixed cages should be secured with ropes, and floating cages should be checked for potential damage. After the storm, a thorough check of the cages is required to identify any damage and address it promptly.
Regular monitoring of the fish population is also necessary. Inspections every 7–10 days help detect diseases early, monitor growth rates, and check for signs of piracy or escape. If inspections are delayed beyond 15 days, it becomes harder to manage feeding properly, leading to either overfeeding or underfeeding. Disease prevention should be done in combination with regular testing, especially in early May when disease outbreaks are common.
Disease prevention is a key part of cage fish farming. Measures such as disinfecting fish, tools, and food, using drug bags, and treating fingerlings with disinfectants are commonly used. A typical prevention schedule includes three sterilization sessions per production cycle: once when the cages are stocked, again in early May before the peak season, and once before and after the start of autumn in August. These practices help reduce the risk of disease and improve overall fish health.
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