5 Mistakes in Using Probiotics in Traditional Tiger Shrimp Ponds

Probiotics for tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) ponds have become a mainstay for traditional farmers to maintain water quality and shrimp health. However, many still fail due to mistakes in their use. This article identifies five most common mistakes when applying probiotics in traditional tiger shrimp ponds, complete with science-based solutions and Biosolution product recommendations.

Mistake 1: Incorrect Dosage – Too Little or Too Much

One of the most frequent mistakes is using probiotic dosages that do not follow the rules. Many farmers think "the more the better" or reduce dosage due to cost reasons. In fact, each bacterial strain has an optimal concentration to work.

Why is Dosage Important?

Microbes such as Bacillus subtilis, Nitrosomonas sp., and Nitrobacter sp. require a minimum population to dominate the pond ecosystem. If the dosage is too low, probiotic bacteria lose the competition against pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Vibrio). Conversely, excessive dosage can cause turbidity and excessive oxygen consumption at night.

Solution from Biosolution

The product Probiotic Formula for Tiger Shrimp Ponds from Biosolution has been formulated with the correct dosage: 3 liters per hectare every 10 days. This amount has been tested to produce an effective population without burdening the pond. Use a measuring tool or measuring cup for accurate dosage.

Mistake 2: Wrong Application Time – Not Considering Daily Cycle

Probiotics are often applied carelessly without considering timing. In fact, bacterial activity is greatly influenced by temperature, light, and oxygen levels.

Best Time: Morning

Biosolution products recommend application in the morning. At that time, water temperature is still low (25-28°C), dissolved oxygen is high after nighttime diffusion, and sunlight is not yet too strong. Aerobic bacteria like Bacillus subtilis will be more active. If applied at midday when temperature >30°C, the risk of bacterial death increases.

Impact of Wrong Timing

Application at night causes bacteria to work when oxygen is minimal, potentially triggering anaerobic conditions that produce toxic compounds. As a result, water quality worsens.

Mistake 3: Not Checking Water Quality Before Application

Probiotics are not a "magic cure" that can fix already heavily polluted water. Many farmers spread probiotics without measuring basic parameters such as pH, ammonia, and nitrite.

Ideal Parameters for Probiotics

• pH: 7.5–8.5
• Ammonia (NH3): <0.1 mg/L
• Nitrite (NO2): <1 mg/L
• Dissolved oxygen: >4 mg/L

If ammonia or nitrite is already very high, probiotics will not work immediately. Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter do oxidize ammonia and nitrite, but the process is gradual. It is better to do initial management (e.g., water exchange or aeration) before spreading probiotics.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Bacterial Strain Diversity

A good pond probiotic is not enough to rely on just one type of bacteria. Tiger shrimp ponds are complex ecosystems that require synergy among various microbes.

Synergy of Three Main Strains

Biosolution products contain three superior strains:

• Bacillus subtilis: Decomposes leftover feed and feces, and suppresses pathogenic Vibrio.
• Nitrosomonas sp.: Oxidizes ammonia into nitrite.
• Nitrobacter sp.: Oxidizes nitrite into safer nitrate.

This combination ensures the nitrogen cycle runs optimally. If only one type is used, e.g., only Bacillus, then ammonia is not fully broken down and remains toxic.

Mistake 5: Inconsistent Application Frequency

Probiotics work gradually and require population maintenance. Many farmers only apply once at the start of cultivation, then stop. As a result, the bacterial population drops drastically after a few weeks.

Ideal Frequency: Every 10 Days

Biosolution products are designed for routine application every 10 days. This interval maintains stable bacterial density, balancing the rate of organic matter accumulation and water quality fluctuations. A consistent schedule also helps suppress Vibrio sustainably.

Conclusion

Mistakes in using probiotics for tiger shrimp ponds are often caused by a lack of understanding of dosage, timing, water quality, strain composition, and frequency. By applying correct practices, traditional farmers can experience the full benefits of probiotics: stable water quality, low mortality, and better harvests. The product Probiotic Formula for Tiger Shrimp Ponds from Biosolution offers a practical solution with a tested formula and clear application guidelines. For further consultation, contact our team via WhatsApp.

FAQ

Can probiotics completely replace water exchange?

No. Probiotics help maintain water quality but cannot fully replace water exchange. In traditional ponds with low stocking density, probiotics can reduce the frequency of water changes, but water exchange is still necessary during extreme parameters (e.g., ammonia >1 mg/L).

How long after probiotic application does water quality improve?

Improvement is usually seen within 3-7 days. Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter need time to build up their population. Ammonia and nitrite parameters will decrease gradually. Optimal results are achieved with routine application every 10 days.

Can probiotics be used together with lime or disinfectants?

Avoid mixing probiotics with disinfectants (chlorine, formalin) simultaneously. Disinfectants will kill probiotic bacteria. Allow a minimum of 48 hours after disinfectant application before spreading probiotics. Dolomite lime can be used together as it is not bactericidal.

Are probiotics safe for tiger shrimp intended for export?

Yes. Biosolution probiotics use natural bacteria that leave no harmful residues. This product is suitable for organic tiger shrimp meeting export standards, as it contains no antibiotics or synthetic chemicals.

How should liquid probiotics be stored to remain effective?

Store in a cool place (temperature 15-25°C) and avoid direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Use within 6 months of production. Shake before use to evenly distribute bacterial cells.