How To Start Giant Freshwater Prawn Backyard Farming | Ulang Farming (Talagalog) | English Subtitle – YouTube inside

Introduction:

The YouTube video, titled “How To Start Giant Freshwater Prawn Backyard Farming,” delves into the captivating realm of “ulang” farming, an intriguing practice centered around the cultivation of colossal freshwater prawns. This engrossing video offers a wealth of knowledge, as the host imparts valuable insights and provides practical tips on the establishment and operation of an ulang farm. By offering a comprehensive guide, it ensures that individuals with an interest in aquaponics and aquaculture can readily embark on this exciting venture.

Giant Freshwater Prawn Backyard Farming:

• Pond construction or preparation
  • Choose a suitable location for your pond that receives plenty of sunlight and is protected from strong winds.
  • The ideal pond size for backyard farming is between 100 and 500 square meters.
  • The pond should be at least 1.5 meters deep.
  • Line the pond with clay or a pond liner to prevent water seepage.
  • Install a water inlet and outlet to allow for water circulation and drainage.
  • Add a layer of gravel or sand to the bottom of the pond to provide a substrate for the prawns.
• Water quality management
  • Maintain a pH level between 6.5 and 8.5.
  • Maintain a dissolved oxygen level of at least 5 ppm.
  • Ammonia and nitrite levels should be kept at zero.
  • Conduct regular water quality tests to ensure optimal conditions for prawn growth.
• Stocking
  • Stock your pond with juvenile prawns (post-larvae or PLs) at a rate of 10-20 PLs per square meter.
  • Purchase PLs from a reputable hatchery.
• Feeding
  • Feed your prawns a high-quality commercial prawn feed.
  • Feed them twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
  • The amount of feed you give them will depend on their size and the water temperature.
• Harvesting
  • Prawns can be harvested after they reach a marketable size, which is typically around 30-50 grams.
  • Harvest prawns by seining or trapping them.

Tips for successful giant freshwater prawn backyard farming

• Provide your prawns with plenty of hiding places, such as rocks, plants, or PVC pipes.
• Monitor your prawns closely for signs of disease or stress.
• Maintain good water quality by conducting regular water changes.
• Harvest your prawns regularly to prevent overcrowding.

Market size in SEA:

The market size of freshwater prawn in Southeast Asia is estimated to be around USD 3 billion annually. The region is the world’s largest producer and consumer of freshwater prawn, accounting for over 90% of global production.

The top producing countries in Southeast Asia are:

• Vietnam (500,000 tonnes)
• Thailand (200,000 tonnes)
• Indonesia (100,000 tonnes)
• Myanmar (50,000 tonnes)
• Cambodia (30,000 tonnes)

The demand for freshwater prawn in Southeast Asia is driven by a number of factors, including:

• Growing population and increasing disposable income
• Rising popularity of seafood
• Health benefits of freshwater prawn
• Cultural significance of freshwater prawn in Southeast Asian cuisine

The major markets for freshwater prawn in Southeast Asia are:

• China
• Japan
• United States
• European Union

The export market for freshwater prawn from Southeast Asia is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The key drivers of growth are:

• Increasing demand for seafood in China and other Asian countries
• Rising popularity of convenient and ready-to-eat seafood products
• Growing awareness of the health benefits of seafood

The freshwater prawn industry in Southeast Asia is facing a number of challenges, including:

• Disease outbreaks
• Lack of access to financing
• Limited technical expertise

Despite these challenges, the freshwater prawn industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The industry is expected to benefit from the growing demand for seafood in Asia and the increasing popularity of convenient and ready-to-eat seafood products.

Related Sections:

1. Introduction to Ulang Farming: The video starts by introducing “ulang,” the indigenous species of giant freshwater prawn found in the Philippines. It emphasizes the unique characteristics of ulang, such as its large size and distinctive flavor, which are comparable to that of tiger prawns. The video further explores the ecological significance of ulang in the Philippines’ freshwater ecosystems and the sustainable farming practices employed to cultivate this species. It also showcases the versatility of ulang in various culinary preparations, ranging from grilled ulang to ulang-based soups and stir-fries. Overall, the video aims to raise awareness about ulang as a delectable and sustainable alternative to tiger prawns in the culinary world..
2. Setting Up the System: The video provides comprehensive instructions to viewers on how to prepare the fish tank. It covers various aspects, starting from selecting an appropriate container that suits the needs of prawns, to choosing the right bio-filter media and mechanical filters for optimal filtration. Additionally, the video highlights the significance of maintaining a pristine and transparent environment for the prawns, ensuring their well-being and overall health.
3. Substrate and Care: The host, who is knowledgeable about prawns, provides valuable insights into the importance of substrate placement and its crucial role in preventing territorial issues among the prawns. It is recommended to use PVC pipes and fittings as they are considered an effective solution for facilitating substrate placement and minimizing territorial conflicts among the prawns. By using PVC pipes and fittings, prawns can establish their territories more easily and peacefully, ensuring a harmonious coexistence within their habitat.
4. Water Quality: The video strongly emphasizes the crucial importance of circulating water for a minimum duration of 48 hours prior to introducing ulang post larvae. This extended period of water circulation is necessary to effectively eliminate chlorine and other minerals that could potentially harm the prawns. In addition to ensuring the elimination of harmful substances, maintaining the proper water quality and oxygenation levels are paramount for the overall health and well-being of the prawns.
5. Ulang Feeding and Growth: The host provides a comprehensive discussion on the dietary preferences of ulang. In addition to that, the host explores various aspects related to ulang such as the suitable geographical regions for their cultivation, the potential for coexistence with other fish species, and the time required for the harvesting process. By delving into these topics, the host ensures that the audience gains a deeper understanding of ulang and its various aspects.
6. System Update: The video provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of the recirculating aquaculture system, showcasing its functionality and the seamless integration of various components. This includes a thorough explanation of how the system operates in real-time, highlighting the importance of key elements such as air compressors and submersible pumps. Additionally, the video explores the benefits and advantages of utilizing this innovative system in aquaculture practices, emphasizing its potential for increased efficiency and sustainability.

Conclusion:

The video provides a wide range of valuable insights for individuals who have a strong interest in starting their own ulang farming businesses. It thoroughly discusses all the crucial factors that should be taken into account when establishing an aquaponic system, such as the meticulous monitoring of water quality and the efficient cultivation of giant freshwater prawns. Moreover, the video offers practical tips and advice that are not only highly informative but also lay a solid groundwork for attaining sustained success in the realm of ulang farming.

Takeaway Key Points:

• Ulang, or giant freshwater prawn, is an indigenous species in the Philippines and a delicious alternative to tiger prawns.
• Proper setup of the fish tank, including bio-filter media and mechanical filters, is crucial for maintaining water quality.
• Careful substrate placement is necessary to prevent territorial issues among ulang.
• Circulating water for 48 hours before introducing ulang post larvae is essential to remove harmful substances.
• Ensuring good water quality and oxygenation is vital for ulang’s well-being.

References:

• Can this breeding technique breathe new life into giant freshwater prawn farming
• Farming Giant Freshwater Prawn
• Status and cost analysis of giant river prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) farming in Taiwan