Nature

Environment
Shrimp farming in Thailand started in hand-made dikes situated on mud flats near the coast. These were filled with seawater through natural tidal flow which also let in wild shrimp stock. Later, more sophisticated ponds were built and water pumped into concrete enclosures. As more farms sprung up and available land became scarce, fishermen moved towards mangroves. By 1993, about 20% of the country's swamps were being used for shrimp farms. Later, in the Central region, inland farming tapped into freshwater sources near rice farms.

Diet
Shrimp diets can be natural feeds -- algae, small animals which come with seawater -- or artificial ones -- fishmeal, shellfish, squid, soybean meal. Desirable characteristics for the diet are good smell, taste, and nutritional value. Vitamins and minerals appropriate for the age of the shrimp are usually added. The size of the particles should suit the size of the shrimp. An important physical requirement is that the feed can last in water no less than 3 hours without breaking up.