Optimal Feeding for Shrimp Culture in the South of Iran

Abstract

Shrimp culture is a relatively new segment of the economy in Iran. Farming of Indian white shrimp Penaeus indicus has exhibited rapid growth during the last decade. Owing to high feeding costs, the rate of feeding per day is a decisive factor for shrimp farmers. Although many biological studies have been carried out to determine the optimal feeding level, few bioeconomic studies have been conducted with respect to this issue. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal feeding level for Iranian shrimp culture. I found that optimal feeding was higher than actual feeding during the middle of the culture period but lower at the end of the period. The shrimp price, feed price, and interest rate elasticities of feeding were calculated to be 1, −0.4, and −0.035%, respectively. These results indicate that optimal feeding may be adjusted during and between seasons based on physiological, environmental, and economic conditions.