The use of model ponds to evaluate phytoplankton blooms and benthic algal mats for Penaeus monodon Fabricius culture

Abstract. Fibreglass pools (3·5m diameter, 1·2m high) were evaluated as model ponds and used to compare the effects of fertilization strategies, designed to promote either phytoplankton blooms or benthic algal mats, on production of Penaeus monodon Fabricius and water quality over 8 weeks. As production results were similar to those reported from commercial ponds in Australia and Taiwan, the pools were considered appropriate experimental units for assessing pond management strategies. Large blooms of filamentous algae developed in four of the eight pools with benthic algae. In these, individual prawn growth (weight gain), biomass gain, food conversion efficiency and drain harvest efficiency were all lower ( P < 0·05) than in pools with phytoplankton. Abundance of filamentous algae was negatively correlated ( P < 0·05) with prawn weight gain (r =−0·80) and drain harvest efficiency (r =−0·76). Differences in water quality arising from alternative fertilization strategies occurred but did not explain differences in prawn production indices. The results indicate that ponds used for monoculture of P. monodon should be fertilized so as to stimulate and maintain phytoplankton blooms and to discourage blooms of filamentous algae.