Raising astragalus in fish ponds can generate 300 kilograms of fish per acre and 30 kilograms of astragalus mongolicus. Although the income from astragalus is relatively low—around $1,000—it significantly enhances aquaculture efficiency by doubling productivity.
The pond covers approximately 10 mu (about 6.7 acres) with an average water depth of 1.2 meters. The structure is wide and sturdy, ensuring no leakage. There are plenty of aquatic plants around the pond, including dry grass and water peanuts, which occupy about 30% of the area to provide habitat for yellow pelicans. The water source is clean, and the pond has convenient water inflow and drainage systems with barriers to prevent fish from escaping.
Before stocking, the pond is treated with lime at a rate of 150 kg per mu, followed by 1,000 kg of manure per mu. After seven days, plankton blooms, making it suitable for fish stocking.
Fish stocking typically occurs in late February. A mix of fish species is used, with 400 fish per acre: 50% whitefish, 20% silver carp, 15% bighead carp, and 15% grass carp. Fish are of similar size, averaging 10 kg per fish, with silver carp being larger, reaching up to 200 grams each. Before placement, fingerlings are soaked in 3% saline for 10 minutes to reduce stress and disease risk.
For astragalus seedlings, healthy, disease-free specimens are collected during their peak growth season. They are briefly immersed in 3% saline for 5 minutes before being placed in the pond at a rate of 30 kg per acre. Uniform size is essential for optimal growth.
Earthen loach and mud eel are also stocked to help control pests and contribute to additional income. These species are small and grow quickly, requiring about 20 kg per mu.
Daily management includes regular fertilization: 5 kg of calcium phosphate and 2.5 kg of urea per acre every 10–15 days. Feeding involves using feed such as soybean meal, corn, bran, and fishmeal, supplemented with vitamins. Feed is given twice daily at 3–5% of the total fish weight.
Water quality is monitored regularly. If fish show signs of oxygen depletion, aeration is activated. Freshwater is added weekly during summer and autumn to maintain “fat, live, tender, and cool†conditions.
Disease prevention is done every 20 days by disinfecting the pond with 20 kg of lime or 1 kg of bleaching powder per acre. Baits are prepared regularly to support fish health.
When adult fish reach market size, they are harvested in batches to maintain proper density. Large nets with big mesh sizes are used to avoid harming smaller fish. Astragalus is harvested when it exceeds 150 grams, using traps and cages. This integrated approach ensures both high yields and sustainable practices.
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