The process of cultivating fine-scale bream fish involves raising summer fish species to a larger size suitable for wintering, typically reaching 6–9 cm in length. This method commonly uses ponds, cement pools, cages, and coastal bays, combining early-stage pond cultivation with later wintering practices. Below is an in-depth overview of this type of fish farming.
**(I) Pre-cultivation of Fish Fingerlings**
Fish fingerlings are initially raised in ponds during the pre-cultivation phase, which refers to the period from breeding summer fish to preparing them for wintering ponds.
1. **Pond Conditions**: These ponds are similar to those used for fry cultivation, with an area of 2–5 mu and a water depth of 1.5–2.0 meters.
2. **Preparation Before Stocking**: Before introducing fish, the pond should be disinfected, predators removed, and base fertilizer applied. The base fertilizer, such as compost or animal manure, is added about 5–10 days before stocking to enrich the natural food supply. The amount of fertilizer is slightly higher than that used for fry.
3. **Stocking Density**: The number of fish per acre depends on factors like pond size, water depth, water quality, and feed type. High-quality fish with no diseases, complete scales, and uniform size are selected for stocking.
4. **Feed Management**: Proper feeding is crucial for rapid growth. Early-stage fish are fed finely ground feed mixed with small amounts of blood meal, gradually transitioning to pellet feed as they grow. Feed should contain around 30% crude protein, with higher animal protein in early stages and more plant-based ingredients as the fish mature. Common ingredients include fishmeal, silkworm pupae, blood meal, soybean cakes, and corn.
**(II) Feeding Techniques**
Feeding is a regular task and directly impacts fish growth and efficiency.
1. **Feeding Frequency and Timing**: Fish should be fed 2–3 times daily, ideally at 8–9 am and 2–3 pm. During hot weather, afternoon feeding can be delayed. If fish show signs of floating, additional feeding may be needed.
2. **Feeding Methods**: Initially, feed is scattered around the pond using fine powder mixed with blood meal. After a week, fish develop conditioned reflexes and can be trained to feed at designated feeding tables made of woven bags or mesh.
3. **Feeding Amount**: The goal is to provide just enough feed so that it is fully consumed within 1–2 hours. Adjustments are made based on remaining feed, weather conditions, and water quality.
**(III) Daily Management**
Water quality management is the core of daily operations.
1. **Pond Patrols**: Inspect the pond daily in the morning and afternoon to monitor water color, fish behavior, and any signs of distress.
2. **Water Quality Control**: Regularly replace old water and add fresh water to maintain good oxygen levels and prevent deterioration. Aerator use is recommended in high-temperature areas to ensure even oxygen distribution.
3. **Disease Prevention**: Clean feeding tables every 2–3 days and disinfect them with bleaching powder (0.3–0.5 kg per 100 m²) every two weeks. Remove weeds and debris regularly to maintain hygiene.
**(IV) Wintering Preparation**
By mid-October, fish reach 5–6 cm in size. As temperatures drop to 18–20°C, their feeding decreases. At this point, fish should be moved to wintering pools to avoid frost damage.
The process includes stopping feeding 4–5 days before transfer, netting exercises, and acclimating fish to dense environments. Fish are then transported under clear, calm weather conditions, sorted, disinfected with methylene blue or potassium permanganate, and placed into wintering ponds. Careful handling is essential to avoid injury.
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