2018
Automated Feeding Systems for Improved Shrimp Production
Contributor/Checkoff:
Category:
Export/Trade
Keywords:
Aquaculture
Parent Project:
This is the first year of this project.
Lead Principal Investigator:
Allen Davis, Auburn University
Co-Principal Investigators:
Project Code:
1830-352-0501-I
Contributing Organization (Checkoff):
Leveraged Funding (Non-Checkoff):
$61,770 waived overhead at federally negotiated rate of 51%.
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Institution Funded:
Brief Project Summary:

This work will concentrate on improving the culture performance of shrimp using automated feed management systems. Based on current research and industry-based application, the move from hand feeding 1-2 time per day to the use of automated feeding systems (allowing 24hr feeding and an increased number of feedings), has resulted in a doubling of growth rates and consequently feed intake. This means in the same production footprint a farmer can almost double their production, which also means doubling the demand for feed. This project will promote the use of soy-based feeds by using a soy optimized open feed formulation and develop feed management strategies and data for automated feeding...

Unique Keywords:
#aquaculture
Information And Results
Project Deliverables

The primary outcomes of this research include:
1) increased knowledge and demonstration of the efficacy of automated timed feeding systems
2) increased knowledge and demonstration of automated feedback feeding systems based on acoustic feedback (AQ1 acoustic on demand feeder), and
3) demonstration of high soy feed formulations under optimized growing conditions. Results have been directly transferred to the industry thought industry training (USSEC supported technical support as well as industry supported presentations), presentations at scientific meetings as well as publications through a range of outlets (e.g., newsletters, trade journals and peer reviewed journals). Results have been presented in conjunction with USSEC technology support in Mexico, Ecuador and Peru. Results have been presented at technical meeting in the US including a training program sponsored by Skretting Ecuador and 37th Fish Feed and Nutrition Workshop. Additionally, one of my students was able to attend and present at the European Aquaculture Meeting.

• Two Page Summary for distribution to constituents (60 days of Completion of the project)
• Presentation of results at producer oriented meetings.
• Incorporation of the results into training materials.
• Development of research publication (1 year of completion of the project).

Final Project Results

Updated February 16, 2021:

View uploaded report PDF file

The results over four years of testing clearly demonstrated that increasing daily feedings through the use of automated feeding systems can significantly increase the production and value of L. vannamei produced in semi-intensive pond culture using a soy optimized feed formulations. Based on our experience real time feed management using acoustic feeders is the most efficient method of feed delivery. Irrespective of the technology, the increased production and/or reduced time to a given marketable size will offset the investment costs for equipment. It should be noted that the application of these technologies have the potential to reduce the time to market, increase production and requirements for feed inputs. Thus, as farmers adopt these technologies it will also drive the demand for feed.

The United Soybean Research Retention policy will display final reports with the project once completed but working files will be purged after three years. And financial information after seven years. All pertinent information is in the final report or if you want more information, please contact the project lead at your state soybean organization or principal investigator listed on the project.