How to grow pona fish

Question

Anurag Gupta · Answer

Growing pona fish, or fingerlings, typically refers to raising juvenile fish in aquaculture. Here's a step-by-step guide for successful pona (fingerling) farming:

1. Pond Preparation:
Pond Size: Choose a pond that is suitable for the species and the number of fish you want to raise. Typically, a 1-acre pond can handle thousands of fingerlings.
Water Quality: Maintain good water quality by ensuring pH levels between 6.5 and 8.5. Regularly monitor temperature, dissolved oxygen, and ammonia levels.
Cleaning: Clean the pond by removing weeds and predators before introducing fingerlings. Use lime to neutralize harmful organisms.
2. Stocking Fingerlings:
Stocking Rate: For small ponds, the stocking density is about 2,000–3,000 fingerlings per acre. Adjust based on the type of fish and pond conditions.
Species Selection: Popular species include Rohu, Catla, Tilapia, or other local varieties. Ensure you source high-quality fingerlings from a trusted hatchery.
3. Feeding:
Natural Food: Let the pond develop natural food like plankton before stocking the fish. Fertilization can help in plankton production.
Supplemental Feeding: Use commercial fish feed containing protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Feed them twice a day to promote healthy growth.
4. Water Management:
Maintain the water level consistently. Refill water as needed and ensure good drainage and aeration systems.
Keep dissolved oxygen levels above 5 mg/liter by installing aerators if necessary.
5. Disease Control:
Monitor for any signs of illness such as lethargy, fin rot, or abnormal swimming patterns. Use proper medications or consult a local aquaculture expert if any disease outbreaks occur.
6. Harvesting:
After 2–3 months, fingerlings grow into marketable size and can be sold or transferred to grow-out ponds.
By carefully managing these steps, you can grow healthy and profitable pona fish. For local practices and specific fish species, it’s advisable to consult with local fisheries or experts.