Raising shrimp at home may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and a bit of passion, it becomes a fascinating adventure. In this publication, you'll find out everything you need to know to get started. We'll look at the different species of shrimp, how they are raised, their advantages and challenges, as well as practical advice on how to get started.
Breeding methods and production cycle
To make a success of your shrimp farmingIn France, it is essential to understand the different farming methods and the production cycle. The species commonly reared in France are penaeid prawnsincluding blue shrimp (Litopenaeus stylirostris) and the Kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus).
These shrimps originate from the Pacific coast of Central and South America and are now widely farmed in mainland France and overseas. Here are some key stages in the farming process:
- Breeding stock in earthen tanks : Breeding shrimp are raised in special earthen tanks.
- Maturation and insemination Sexual maturity is reached in specialised rooms. L. stylirostris is artificially inseminated, while M. japonicus reproduces naturally.
- Feeding larvae A diet consisting of live prey and microparticles is essential for larvae.
- Farming in earthen basins Young shrimp are transferred to earthen tanks at a density of 5 to 35 shrimp per square metre.
- Ageing period : It takes around 5 to 8 months for prawns to reach maturity.
- Shrimp food A balanced diet containing fishmeal, maize, wheat, minerals and vitamins is essential for their growth.
The table below summarises the specific characteristics of the two main species of shrimp farmed in France:
| Species | Scientific name | Origin | Maximum size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue shrimp | Litopenaeus stylirostris | Pacific coast of Central and South America | 23 cm |
| Kuruma shrimp | Marsupenaeus japonicus | Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean | 22 cm |
Production trends
The history of shrimp farming began in New Caledonia thanks to Professor Doumenge in the 1970s. However, it was in the 1980s that this activity really took off. In 1981, L. stylirostris replaced the local species in New Caledonia. In 1985, the first M. japonicus farms were set up in the salt works on the island of Noirmoutier.
Production trends can be summarised as follows:
- France (2002) 25 tonnes
- Polynesia (2002) 50 tonnes
- New Caledonia (2002) 1,830 tonnes, with the aim of doubling production
In terms of value-added, fresh shrimp is sold on local markets and a large quantity is exported in frozen form. To illustrate these figures:
| Region | Production (tonnes) | Jobs created | Sales (millions of euros) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Caledonia | 1,380 tonnes exported | 900 jobs | 23 million |
| France | 25 tonnes | – | – |
Strengths and weaknesses
Like any industry, shrimp farming has its advantages and disadvantages. Here's what stands out:
- Highlights :
- Absence of viral diseases
- Semi-intensive farming techniques
- Respect for the environment and traceability
- Strict health surveillance
- Well-controlled production cycle
- Weak points :
- Frequent bacterial episodes
- Competition with other coastal activities
- High production costs
- Tough international competition
Bacterial outbreaks can sometimes wreak havoc, but thanks to me, a young animal welfare manager, I keep a scrupulous eye on the quality and health of the species I keep. One day, during a surprise visit to a farm, I was able to see the enormous efforts made to maintain optimal conditions. Fortunately, these facilities incorporate additional measures to ensure strict health control.
Farming that respects the environment... and saves resources
New approaches to fish farming are moving towards more environmentally-friendly operations. Take the example of Lisaqua, a leading company developing an aquaculture farm with zero environmental impact. These farms practise permaquaculturea rejection-free, antibiotic-free farming model.
Another interesting case is the Géraud Laval in the Gers. This project is based on optimised management of earthen ponds with closed-circuit production. This means that water is recycled and waste is minimised. Imagine a shrimp farm that uses alfalfa pellets to supplement its natural feed! Not only is it environmentally friendly, it's also resource-efficient.
Below is a summary of the eco-responsible practices used in these projects:
| Practice | Operating | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Permaquaculture | Lisaqua | No rejection, no antibiotics |
| Closed circuit | Géraud Laval | Save water, reduce waste |
A funny anecdote for you: Once, during a training course on good husbandry practices In the Gers, I saw a pond that looked more like an ecological swimming pool than an industrial production site. The prawns seemed to be dancing in the crystal-clear water. It's amazing what a little imagination and a lot of effort can do for the quality of life of these crustaceans!
To find out more
For those who want to go further, France offers a range of training courses to learn about good shrimp farming practices. Several vocational colleges in Mayenne and Loire Atlantique offer specialised programmes. These courses cover everything from farming techniques and health management to complementary farming with other species such as trout out of season.
Shrimp farming is also expanding rapidly worldwide. In Madagascar, the OSO and Unima companies produce organic shrimp bearing the organic label. However, these labels entail constraints and high costs. In 2022, the Madagascan industry represented an annual turnover of €100 million. Investing in virtuous practices validates the feasibility of this activity, while guaranteeing economic and environmental sustainability.
In France, the Association Interprofessionnelle de la Crevette d'Eau Douce (AICED), created in 2022, supports local initiatives. Projects like Gascogne Aquaculturewhich began trials in 2017, illustrate the desire to demonstrate the economic and ecological feasibility of this activity. Here are some tips on how to get started:
- Learn breeding techniques from experts.
- Ensuring ongoing technical support.
- Choose the right species for your environment.
- Investing in sustainable, profitable infrastructure.
- Opt for resource-efficient production practices.
I encourage you to venture into this fascinating world. Respectful and economically viable shrimp farming is within reach with determination and a good dose of passion. Go ahead, make your prawns dance!
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