To start a freshwater prawn farming project, farmers need to ensure that the selected land site is suitable for the type of breeding to be made. The site must be close to freshwater rivers and free from pollution. Prawn are more suitable to be reared in ponds and farmers need to ensure that the water supply is also sufficient for the duration of the rearing period. The recommended pond shape is a rectangular pond measuring 0.2 ha with a depth of 1.2 m. It is estimated that the construction cost of a 0.1 ha land pond complete with inlets and outlets is approximately RM 2,000 – RM 2,500. The recommended stocking is between 10-20 prawn/m2 and the use of ventilator such as paddle wheel is necessary. Commercial prawn breeding is dependent on formula feed that contains protein content between 28-35%. The breeding period is between 5-6 months (yield size 25 gm – 30 gm each).
You can contact the Aquaculture Development Division which offers Freshwater Prawn Farming courses at PPA Perlok, Pahang or any State and District Fisheries Office in your area to get more information on hatchery operators and equipment suppliers. Telephone numbers and addresses can be obtained from the Department Directory on the website.