If you want to ensure that your squid grow quickly and healthily, effective feed management is essential. Based on practical experience, the author has compiled several key strategies that farmers can refer to when managing feeding practices.
First, water temperature plays a significant role in feeding behavior. The difference between morning and evening temperatures can influence the squid’s feeding pattern. In non-temperature-controlled pools, a daily temperature fluctuation of up to 3°C is considered normal and typically doesn’t affect feeding. However, if the temperature difference exceeds 4°C during certain seasons, it may disrupt the feeding process of common carp. In such cases, it's advisable to reduce the bait rate by 30% to 50% to prevent stress and discomfort.
To manage this, farmers are advised to adjust their insulation sheds accordingly. During the transition from spring to summer, it’s better to delay the removal of the shed, while in fall and winter, the shed should be covered earlier to minimize temperature fluctuations and maintain stable conditions for the squid.
Second, the feeding rate should be adjusted based on seasonal water temperature changes. Under normal conditions, when the water temperature is between 24°C and 29°C, the bait rate should be around 2.5% to 3%. If the temperature rises above 30°C, the rate should be reduced to 2.2% to 2.6%. When the temperature drops to 20°C–24°C, the rate should be between 1.6% and 2.5%, and further reduced to 1%–1.6% at 14°C–20°C. Below 14°C, the bait rate should drop even more, to 0.4%–1.0%. These are general guidelines, and adjustments can be made depending on local conditions.
Third, the size of the squid also affects feeding rates. As they grow, their feeding rate decreases. For example, during the early white seedling stage, the feed amount should be about 5%–6% of their body weight. Once they reach the dark stage (around 500–800 grams), the rate should be lowered to 3.5%–5%. As they grow larger, say to 80–500 grams, the rate should be controlled at 3.5%–2.5%, and when they reach 15–50 grams, it should be reduced to 2.5%–1.5%.
Fourth, water quality is closely linked to feeding behavior. In intensive culture systems, excessive water exchange or sudden algae changes in earthen ponds can cause stress and lead to reduced or even complete loss of feeding. Poor water quality, especially high levels of ammonia and nitrite, can also harm the squid. For instance, if ammonia exceeds 2 ppm or nitrite exceeds 0.2 ppm, it can interfere with oxygen absorption and lead to abnormal feeding. To avoid these issues, farmers should regularly test water quality using a reliable test kit, ensuring dissolved oxygen remains above 5 ppm. If it drops below 3 ppm, feeding behavior may become irregular.
Fifth, light intensity can also impact feeding. Squid tend to prefer slightly darker environments, especially as they mature. Sudden changes in lighting can disrupt their feeding habits, so maintaining consistent lighting conditions is important.
Lastly, abrupt weather changes can also affect feeding. When it suddenly becomes hot, squid may feel stressed and even experience temporary oxygen deficiency. In such cases, reducing feeding by at least half is recommended. Similarly, cold air outbreaks can cause discomfort, so the feeding amount should be cut by more than a third. After heavy rain, it's best to skip feeding for a day and perform a full water disinfection to reduce stress on the fish.
By carefully managing these factors—temperature, feeding rates, water quality, light, and weather—farmers can create an optimal environment for squid growth and improve overall productivity.
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