A POPULATION DYNAMICS MODEL FOR PRAWN AQUACULTURE

Abstract
We have used a stochastic population model to simulate the prawn size distribution in the grow‐out ponds as a function of time. The model allows for growth and mortality parameters which are dependent on size class and pond biomass. We have written a computer program based on this model in which the user inputs a stocking number, a stocking size distribution, a stocking schedule, the harvest size classes, and a harvest schedule. The computer then computes the number of prawns and the prawn size distribution in the pond at specified time increments and a quarterly production economics summary.We compare simulated growth and harvest data generated by the program to actual growth and harvest data from Hawaii and Florida. We also use the program to evaluate the effects of stocking number, stocking schedule and stocking size on annual yields from a prawn grow‐out pond.

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