Application of Multi-trophic Aquaculture to Improve Management of Bacterial Load and Health in Pond Culture of Penaeus monodon (Fabricius, 1798)

The integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system, utilizing various organic and inorganic extractors, was evaluated as a sustainable approach to improving shrimp health, managing disease, and optimizing environmental conditions in semi-intensive pond culture of Penaeus monodon. The experiment was conducted in four treatments, with triplicates: (T0) monoculture of P. monodon (control), (T1) P. monodon in green water technology (polyculture) with Oreochromis niloticus, (T2) P. monodon in IMTA with Chanos chanos, Ulva fasciata, and Perna viridis, and (T3) P. monodon in IMTA with C. chanos, Gracilaria verrucosa, and P. viridis. The study took place in Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines, using 12 ponds (250 m² each) with a 5% feeding rate based on body weight. Microbial analysis revealed the presence of bacteria such as Vibrio, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, and Staphylococcus aureus in water, soil, and shrimp in some treatments, particularly T0, though all were within normal ranges. Acute Hepatopancreatic necrosis disease was not detected, but white spot syndrome was observed in T0. No significant differences (P>0.05) were found in growth and survival across treatments, except for T0. IMTA treatments (T2, T3) showed higher total production and net income, with T1 yielding the highest ROI. Results highlight IMTA's potential to reduce pathogenic bacteria and improve shrimp production and profitability.