How to raise crabs in winter? Key points of winter breeding management techniques

In low-temperature weather, crabs mostly do not feed much, and some are directly frozen to death. Crabs are poikilothermic animals, and their body temperature mainly depends on the ambient water temperature. Usually, a crab's body temperature is slightly higher than the temperature of the surrounding environment, and water temperature can affect its growth and changes. So how should we help crabs get through low-temperature weather? How to raise crabs in winter?

The following issues should be noted in winter crab breeding

1. Pond requirements

The area is 5-10 mu, the pond water level is kept above 1.5 m, the water source is good, the inlet and drainage systems are convenient, the pond ridge does not leak, the pond ridge surface width is 2-3 m, and the bottom silt is below 15 cm. Ten days before the river crabs enter the pond, use quicklime to clear the pond, and after 7 days, add water and stock. Before adult crabs enter the pond, carry out separate-pond temporary holding.

2. Quality and quantity requirements

The crabs to be raised need to be individuals that are disease-free and injury-free, have complete appendages, and are strong in vitality. The individual size is about 120 g, and the stocking density per mu is 500-600 kg. Aquatic plants such as alligator weed and Hydrilla verticillata, as well as an appropriate amount of river snails, need to be placed in the pond to keep the river crabs from losing too much fat during the temporary holding period.

3. Daily management requirements

(1) Water quality management: Crabs like a fresh water environment. During the temporary holding period, a certain water level should be maintained, and the water exchange volume should be adjusted according to the size of the pond water and the inlet and drainage capacity. The transparency should be about 40 cm, the pH value should be between 7.5-8.5, and dissolved oxygen should be kept at 5 mg/L.

(2) Feed feeding: Mainly feed animal-based feed, supplemented by plant-based feed, of which animal-based feed accounts for 60-70% of the total feed. When the water temperature is higher than 10°C, the daily feeding amount is about 10% of the river crab's weight, fed in two portions, with 30-40% of the total daily amount in the morning and 60-70% in the afternoon. When the water temperature is lower than 10°C, the feeding amount is reduced by 3-5%, until feeding stops during hibernation.

(3) Pond patrol inspection: Check water color and water level. Maintain good water quality and sufficient dissolved oxygen. Second, check activity conditions, feed an appropriate amount to ensure they eat well and are full, and promptly remove spoiled residual bait to keep the water quality fresh.