A comparison of two prawn (Penaeus monodon ) brood stock systems—land–based tanks and marine pens

Abstract

The paper compares two prawn (Penaeus monodon) brood stock systems—land-based tanks and marine offshore pens. Construction costs and annual maintenance and operating costs total US\$1,430 and \$2,550 for the tank and \$1,500 and \$3,680, respectively, for the pen. The 12 m3 ferrocement tank requires power for a 24-hour seawater flowthrough and can stock 50 animals/run for a projected yearly production of 8×106 nauplii for 1.2 × 106 juveniles (0.1 to 0.5 g body weight). The 16×16×4 m pen made of bamboo and nylon net materials can accommodate 300 brood stock/run with a projected annual production of 30 × 106 nauplii or 4.5 × 106 juveniles. Discussion includes general requirements, mortality and maturation rates, and criteria for choosing a brood stock system.