This project falls under the CRADLE Challenge 2020 that aims to revitalize various sectors of the industry as they cope with the devastating effects of the current pandemic. This project envisions that relevant technologies and practices are in place to cope with the impact of COVID-19 and serve as a proactive tool when future pandemics occur. This project will use the biofloc technology where there is a constant production of bacteria and other minute organisms that serve as food for the shrimp and fish and, at the same time, use the organic wastes that contain carbon and nitrogen for their continued production. Since BFT is both site- and species-specific, there is a need to assess its applicability for the tank-based nursery production of white-legged shrimp as means of ensuring continuous and reliable source of seedstock during the production cycle in ponds. The success of the project also ensures a stable supply of aquatic products for food and as source of export that will help rebuild the national economy. Moreover, the availability of jobs, especially to the marginalized labor sectors of the community, is ensured if our agriculture sector, including aquaculture, continues its productive operations.
The project’s main objective is to develop a biofloc technology (BFT) protocol for improved growth and survival of white leg shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, during tank-based nursery production and ensure a stable supply of aquatic products for food and as source of export that will help rebuild the national economy.