Freshwater Shrimp Farming: Complete A–Z Guide for Beginners in India

Snapshot

Freshwater shrimp farming is an emerging and highly profitable aquaculture venture in India, suitable for both small and large-scale farmers. It involves the cultivation of freshwater shrimp species like Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Giant River Prawn) in controlled pond or tank environments. With increasing domestic demand, export potential, and support from government schemes like PMMSY, this farming model offers low investment and high returns. From site selection and pond design to seed stocking, feeding, disease control, and marketing—every step must be strategically planned and carefully executed. With proper training and resource management, beginners can generate a consistent and sustainable income through shrimp farming in 2025.

Freshwater shrimp farming is gaining popularity in India due to its high profit potential, low startup cost, and increasing market demand. Whether you’re a rural farmer, agri-entrepreneur, or student exploring aquaculture, this beginner-friendly guide covers everything from setup to selling shrimp profitably in 2025.

What is Freshwater Shrimp Farming?

Freshwater shrimp farming is the process of breeding, raising, and harvesting shrimp (mainly Macrobrachium rosenbergii) in inland freshwater ponds or tanks.

🔍 Related Terms:

• Aquaculture – Farming of aquatic animals.
• Prawn vs Shrimp – In India, “shrimp” and “prawn” are often used interchangeably, but they are different species.

💡 Expert Note: The most commonly farmed freshwater shrimp in India is the Giant River Prawn.

Why Start Freshwater Shrimp Farming in 2025?

• 🌍 High Market Demand: Shrimp exports from India crossed ₹50,000 crore in 2024.
• 💰 Low Investment, High Return: ROI up to 80% in a season.
• 🚜 Government Subsidies: Available through schemes like PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana).
• 🌱 Eco-Friendly: Less feed and chemical input compared to marine farming.

🎯 Tip: Ideal for small-scale farmers, women entrepreneurs, and youth in rural India.

Best Freshwater Shrimp Species in India

✅ Recommended Species:

• Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Giant River Prawn)
• Macrobrachium malcolmsonii (Indian River Prawn)

🧠 Note: M. rosenbergii is the preferred choice for commercial farming due to faster growth and better survival rate.

Ideal Climate and Water Quality Conditions

✅ Ideal Conditions:

• Temperature: 25–31°C
• pH Level: 7.0–8.5
• Dissolved Oxygen (DO): > 5 mg/L
• Salinity: 0 ppt (completely freshwater)

Step-by-Step Freshwater Shrimp Farm Setup

🔧 Steps:

1. Site Selection – Access to clean water, electricity, and roads.
2. Pond Construction or Tanks – Size: 0.25–1 acre or indoor tanks.
3. Water Source Setup – Tube wells or rivers with filters.
4. Hatchery Procurement – Buy seeds from certified hatcheries.
5. Install Aerators – Maintain oxygen levels.
6. Quarantine Tanks – For initial seed acclimatisation.
7. Stocking – Based on density (6–8 per sq. meter).

🔧 Note: Use HDPE-lined ponds for longer life and ease of maintenance.

Pond Design & Construction

• Shape: Rectangular with gentle slopes.
• Depth: 1–1.5 meters.
• Inlets/Outlets: With screens to prevent escape and entry of predators.
• Slope: 1:3 gradient for proper drainage.

🧱 Tip: Use brick-lined embankments to reduce seepage.

Seed Selection and Stocking Density

✅ Stocking Guidelines:

• Stock juvenile shrimp of 2–3 cm size.
• Density: 10–15 shrimp per m².
• Acclimatise seeds for 24 hrs before release.

🧬 Expert Note: Always verify the health certification of hatchery seeds to avoid disease.

Feeding Schedule and Nutrition

✅ Feed Types:

• Starter Feed: Crumbles (up to 30% protein)
• Grower Feed: Pellets (20–25% protein)
• Organic options: Rice bran, groundnut cake

🥣 Tip: Feed during cooler parts of the day – morning & evening.

Disease Management & Health Tips

🔬 Common Diseases:

• White tail disease
• Shell rot
• Bacterial infections

✅ Preventive Measures:

• Regular water testing
• Biosecurity (no outside access)
• Disinfect feed trays and nets

⚠️ Note: Avoid overfeeding — uneaten feed causes disease.

Harvesting Techniques

• Time: 5–6 months after stocking.
• Method: Draining pond or cast netting.
• Size: 100–200 gm is ideal for the market.

Cost & Profit Analysis (Per Acre)

Expected Yield: 1000–1200 kg
Market Price: ₹350/kg
Gross Income: ₹4,00,000–₹4,20,000
Net Profit: ₹1,20,000–₹1,40,000 (in 6 months)

💹 Profit Tip: Use contract farming or tie-ups with hotels/exporters.

Licensing and Government Support

• PMMSY Subsidy: Up to 40% capex subsidy
• NABARD Loans: Agri-business startup funding
• Registration: With the Fisheries Dept. & local Panchayat

📄 Note: Keep all bills and bank statements for subsidy claims.

Marketing & Selling Freshwater Shrimp

✅ Selling Options:

• Local fish markets
• Hotels & restaurants
• Online platforms like Licious, FreshToHome
• Export via agents

Expert Tips to Maximise Profit

✅ Choose disease-resistant seeds
✅ Monitor water parameters weekly
✅ Maintain feeding logs
✅ Use probiotics regularly
✅ Diversify with polyculture (fish + shrimp)

💡 One-Line Tip: “Healthy pond = High profit.”

Conclusion

Freshwater shrimp farming is a highly profitable, sustainable venture for Indian farmers in 2025. With the right setup, quality seeds, and consistent care, even small-scale farmers can generate impressive income. Follow this guide step by step and scale your success in aquaculture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)