Energy budgeting and economic analysis of shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) production under different culture techniques in Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

This study evaluates energy usage and economic performance in shrimp farms using conventional, biofloc, and semi-biofloc culture techniques across Tamil Nadu, India. Data were collected from 37 farms and classified into nine culture systems based on culture techniques and stocking density. Energy input ranged from 918,734.30 MJ/ha to 6,961,172.45 MJ/ha, while output energy varied from 19,463.50 MJ/ha to 340,456.48 MJ/ha, with the highest values in biofloc super-intensive systems. Results reveal that energy consumption increases with stocking intensity, particularly in biofloc systems, due to continuous aeration and higher feed input. Electricity was identified as the major input energy source, followed by chemicals, fertilizers, and fuel. Semi-biofloc culture systems showed higher energy efficiency compared to conventional methods, while super-intensive biofloc culture systems exhibited higher productivity with lower relative energy inputs performing well in terms of both energy and economic aspects. Semi-intensive systems in semi-biofloc culture were identified as the most energy-efficient and sustainable, balancing economic returns with lower environmental impacts. Therefore, conducting energy budgeting to identify high energy consumption areas and adopting energy-efficient practices, in conjunction with harnessing renewable energy sources, can substantially enhance sustainable productivity in shrimp production systems.