Farmers in rural areas are increasingly opting to farm fish as a more rapid and effective source of income. However, when starting a fish farm, one of the more serious challenges is the cold. Fish do not grow as quickly when the water is cold, and their appetite declines, which could result in a significant number of dead fish! In any case, we provide additional suggestions for fish farming:
Keep an Eye on the Water Temperature
Fish farming is good, and it benefits farmers across the nation. Fish farming can be done in both the summer and the winter. In the winter, a farmer has to be careful of managing the water temperature of the pond. The water temperature in winter can cause significant fish losses. Extreme cold will slow fish growth, decrease fish appetite, and increase fish deaths. Thus, the farmers should consider these very important factors:
- Farmers should keep pond water at 25 to 30 degrees Celsius to help fish grow properly.
- Feed fish a protein-rich diet on time. You can make protein pellets and add them to the pond. This diet keeps fish healthy and protects them from diseases and cold.
- Provide fresh water to fish every day. Circulate fresh water in the pond for 2 to 3 hours daily. In winter, cold water makes fish stay in different layers:
- Catla stays in the top layer
- Rohu stays in the middle layer
- Mangal fish stays in the bottom layer
Take care of these layers to avoid losses.
If you see problems like less food intake, lethargy, or fish not surfacing, contact the Fisheries Department or an expert immediately.
Profit from Fish Farming
Fish farming grows rapidly in many parts of the country and gives farmers good profits. Farmers earn about ₹1 to 2 lakh per year. The farm usually covers 1 to 2 acres, but you can earn more depending on the fish species and market demand.