The head fish, commonly known as Wuchang fish, is a herbivorous species and one of China's most important edible economic fish. In recent years, *Ctenopharyngodon idella* (Wuchang fish) has become highly popular in the market due to its high economic value in aquaculture. It has a broad appetite, low feed cost, fast growth rate, high survival rate, and strong adaptability, making it ideal for farming. Its easy breeding techniques and low environmental requirements make it a favorite among small-scale farmers.
**1. Pond Conditions**
For successful aquaculture, ponds should be between 3 to 10 acres in size with a depth of at least 1.5 meters. Rectangular shapes oriented east-west are preferable, as they maximize sunlight exposure, promoting plankton growth and maintaining warmer water temperatures. The pond must have a reliable water source, clean water quality, efficient drainage, and convenient access for transportation. The bottom should be firm, free from leaks, and not too deep in silt—no more than 20 cm. Additionally, adult fish ponds should be equipped with aerators, with at least 0.5 kW per mu of pond area.
**2. Pond Preparation**
Before stocking fish, the pond should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. This is best done in winter or early spring when the pond can freeze to kill pathogens. Excess silt should be removed, dikes repaired, and the bottom leveled. Common disinfectants include bleaching powder, quick lime, or tea seed cake. Lime is often preferred. For dry ponds, apply 60–75 kg per mu; for wet ponds with 1 meter of water, use 120–150 kg per mu. Bleaching powder is used at 4–8 kg per mu for dry ponds, and 13.5–15 kg per mu for wet ponds. Allow 7–14 days after treatment before stocking.
**3. Stocking Time and Density**
Fish should be stocked in December or February, on sunny days. Avoid rainy, snowy, or windy conditions. Start by releasing the main fish, then add mixed species after 15 days. Avoid stocking aggressive feeders like carp or squid. Ensure all fry are healthy, uniform in size, and disease-free. Stocking density depends on expected yield, fish size, and farming techniques. For example, 1000 fish per acre with an average weight of 100–150 grams, or 1250 fish weighing around 20 grams per individual. Proper stocking ensures optimal use of available food resources, maximizing productivity.
**4. Water Quality Management**
Maintain water depth between 1.2–1.5 meters during stocking. As fish grow and temperatures rise, gradually increase the depth. Monitor water quality regularly, change water as needed, and keep dissolved oxygen levels between 3–5 mg/L. Maintain transparency above 30 cm and pH between 7.5–8. A "fat, live, tender, cool" water condition is ideal. Apply 3 kg/mu of phosphate and 1 kg/mu of potassium fertilizer to promote algae growth. Use aerators during sunny hours to stir water, remove harmful gases, and increase oxygen levels. Also, ensure that feed is of high quality to reduce ammonia buildup in the water.
**5. Feeding Practices**
Feed the fish with compound feed that is resistant to water, uniform in texture, and free from mold. Follow the "four sets" principle: fixed feeding location, timing based on water temperature, proper quantity, and high-quality feed. Feed 2–3 times daily when water temperature is below 20°C, and 3–4 times when it's higher. Feed in the morning and evening. Adjust the amount so that 80% of the fish eat fully, and avoid overfeeding. If fish show signs of illness or weather changes, reduce feeding to 70%. During hot weather, consider reducing or stopping feeding if fish show signs of stress.
**6. Disease Prevention**
Disease prevention starts with maintaining a clean environment and good management practices. Disinfect tools, fingerlings, and feed areas regularly. Avoid sudden changes in water temperature, which can stress the fish. Select high-quality fish with strong immunity and good growth rates. Handle fish carefully to minimize injury and disease transmission. Avoid unnecessary pond cleaning. High-quality feed improves health and reduces water pollution. Monitor fish behavior, eating habits, and color changes. Any abnormal signs, such as blackening or excessive mucus, may indicate disease. Keep detailed records of daily observations and pond conditions to improve future practices.
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