The Evaluation of Macrobrachium Rosenbergii and Tilapia Aurea Polyculture in Texas

Abstract

The feasibility of polyculturing Macrobrachium rosenbergii and Tilapia aurea was examined in 500 m2 earthern ponds in central Texas. Monoculture of each species was also undertaken to provide comparative data. Secondary production and water quality were monitored to determine their influences on survival, growth and production of the cultured species. Production of freshwater shrimp in 500 m2 in central Texas was similar to that obtained in other temperate regions of the United States where similar stocking densitites and initial sizes have been employed. At a density of 9 shrimp per m2, average production was 1120 kg/ha. Polyculture increased production above that obtained from shrimp alone. At stocking rates of 9 shrimp and 1 fish per m2, total production reached 2240 kg/ha. Combining fish with shrimp resulted in a recognizable but non-significant reduction in shrimp growth and survival. Competition for food appeared to be the primary interaction between the two species.