Effect of Stocking Density on Growth Performance of Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus Monodon) in Organic Aquaculture System

Organic shrimp aquaculture prioritizes natural feeds, sustainable practices, and avoids antibiotics and chemicals, promoting a healthier production. This study investigated the optimal stocking density for black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) in organic aquaculture. Shrimp were reared at densities of 5, 7, and 9 shrimp per square meter (PL/m²) in ponds for 120 days. Water quality parameters during this period were: temperature (28.84-37.94°C), pH (6.47-8.81), dissolved oxygen (5.25-10.67 mg/L), ammonia (0.001-0.10 mg/L), and total dissolved solids (3.35-11.43 mg/L). Pond bottom soil quality included organic carbon (0.93-1.87%), organic matter (0.04-0.27%), total nitrogen (0.70-2.13 µg/g), total phosphorus (0.24-0.70 µg/g), and potassium (0.42-1.3 mEq/100 g), with nitrogen increasing at higher stocking densities. Chlorophyll a concentration ranged from 4.93 to 17.01 µg/L, and bacterial load increased with stocking density in T1 (0.21 ± 0.07×10³ CFU/mL). PCA showed higher densities led to increased ammonia from faeces and uneaten feed, raising nitrogen and Vibrio in sediments. Pearson’s correlation indicated a relationship between nitrogen, phosphorus, and chlorophyll a production. The highest weight gain was in the lowest density treatment (T1: 27.54 ± 0.52 g), with the lowest in the highest density (T3: 19.08 ± 0.59 g). Survival rates ranged from 38.88% to 59.77%, with T1 having the highest survival. Specific growth rate (SGR) decreased with density, and the best feed conversion ratio was in T1 (1.50 ± 0.08). The benefit-cost ratio was highest in T1 (1.85 ± 0.03), recommending an optimal stocking density of 05 PL/m² for profitability and healthier yield.