Shrimp Pond Water Quality Ammonia: Probiotic Solution for Vaname

Shrimp pond water quality ammonia is a determining factor for the success of intensive vaname shrimp farming. High ammonia (NH₃) can cause stress, reduce appetite, and even lead to mass mortality. To effectively manage shrimp pond water quality ammonia, farmers need a science-based microbiological approach, namely the application of aquaculture probiotics. Products like Vaname Shrimp Pond Probiotic Formula from Biosolution are specifically designed to stabilize water quality and keep ammonia below the threshold (<0.1 ppm).

Why Ammonia Becomes a Critical Problem in Shrimp Ponds?

Ammonia is produced from feed residue, shrimp metabolism, and decomposition of organic matter. Under normal conditions, nitrifying bacteria oxidize ammonia into nitrite (NO₂⁻) and then into nitrate (NO₃⁻), which is relatively non-toxic. However, in intensive ponds with high stocking densities, the natural nitrification process is often insufficient. Accumulation of ammonia and nitrite becomes a serious threat.

Impact of High Ammonia on Vaname Shrimp

Ammonia in its un-ionized form (NH₃) is highly toxic. At concentrations >0.1 ppm, shrimp experience osmoregulatory disruption, gill damage, and reduced disease resistance. If left unchecked, the survival rate (SR) can drop drastically. Therefore, managing shrimp pond water quality ammonia must be a top priority.

Role of Nitrifying and Decomposer Bacteria

Effective aquaculture probiotics contain nitrifying bacteria such as Nitrosomonas sp. and Nitrobacter sp., as well as decomposer bacteria like Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis. Nitrosomonas oxidizes ammonia to nitrite, while Nitrobacter oxidizes nitrite to nitrate. Bacillus sp. produces protease, amylase, and lipase enzymes that accelerate the decomposition of organic matter, reducing the source of ammonia.

Vaname Shrimp Pond Probiotic Formula: Composition and Mechanism

The Vaname Shrimp Pond Probiotic Formula from Biosolution contains four superior bacterial strains: Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Nitrosomonas sp., and Nitrobacter sp. Each has a specific role in maintaining water quality.

Bacillus subtilis: Anti-Vibrio and Organic Decomposer

Bacillus subtilis is known as a probiotic bacterium capable of producing antimicrobial compounds such as subtilin and surfactin. These compounds effectively suppress the growth of Vibrio spp., the main pathogen causing disease in shrimp. Additionally, B. subtilis also decomposes organic matter, reducing the ammonia load.

Bacillus licheniformis: Producer of Extracellular Enzymes

Bacillus licheniformis produces various extracellular enzymes such as protease, amylase, and xylanase. These enzymes break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fibers from feed residue into simple compounds that can be utilized by nitrifying bacteria. This process reduces the accumulation of organic sludge and ammonia sources.

Nitrosomonas sp. and Nitrobacter sp.: Ammonia and Nitrite Oxidizers

Nitrosomonas sp. oxidizes ammonia to nitrite, while Nitrobacter sp. oxidizes nitrite to nitrate. Both bacteria work synergistically to keep ammonia and nitrite concentrations low. With routine application every 7–10 days, ammonia concentration can be maintained below 0.1 ppm.

Proper Application Method and Dosage

For optimal results, aquaculture probiotics must be applied using the correct method and dosage. Biosolution recommends a dosage of 5 L per hectare of pond, broadcast directly into the pond in the morning or evening. Application frequency is every 7–10 days, especially during critical periods (week 4 to harvest).

Preparation Before Application

Ensure aeration is running well to distribute the bacteria evenly. Avoid using disinfectants or antibiotics simultaneously as they can kill the probiotic bacteria. If using chlorine or other chemicals, wait at least 48 hours before probiotic application.

Water Quality Monitoring

Conduct routine measurements of water quality parameters such as ammonia, nitrite, pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen. With monitoring, farmers can evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics and adjust dosage if necessary. The use of Ammonia & Nitrite Emergency Formula can be a quick solution if a sudden ammonia spike occurs.

Real Results: Increased SR and Reduced Water Exchange

Field data shows that routine application of Vaname Shrimp Pond Probiotic Formula can increase vaname shrimp SR by 10–15% and reduce Vibrio populations by up to 40%. Ammonia remains stable below 0.1 ppm, so water exchange needs are reduced by 30%. This means savings in water and energy costs, as well as reduced risk of pathogen entry from outside the pond.

Case Study: Vaname Pond in Lampung

A farmer in Lampung applied this probiotic over two cultivation cycles. In the cycle without probiotics, SR was only 65% with ammonia often rising above 0.3 ppm. After using probiotics, SR increased to 82%, ammonia stabilized at 0.05–0.08 ppm, and water change frequency decreased from 3 times per week to 2 times. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of probiotics in managing shrimp pond water quality ammonia.

Conclusion

Managing shrimp pond water quality ammonia requires an integrated approach, and aquaculture probiotics are a science-based solution proven effective. The Vaname Shrimp Pond Probiotic Formula from Biosolution, with a combination of Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Nitrosomonas sp., and Nitrobacter sp., can suppress ammonia, nitrite, and Vibrio, while increasing SR and reducing water exchange. For maximum results, apply according to the recommended dosage and frequency. If you would like further consultation on aquaculture probiotics or related products, contact the Biosolution team via WhatsApp. Together, let's create productive and sustainable shrimp ponds.