Solar-powered crab fattening farm with a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for mud crab (Scylla olivacea)

Abstract

Due to its significant commercial worth and the trend of diversifying seafood output beyond fish and shrimp, the mangrove crab <i>Scylla olivacea</i> has become a prime target for intensive aquaculture. Mud crabs suffer from oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation due to their immunological and physiological reactions to air exposure. To address this challenge, a Solar-Powered Crab Fattening Farm with a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) for Mud Crab (<i>S. olivacea</i>) was developed, addressing the challenges of traditional crab farming, including fat loss and environmental stress. This study aimed to design, assemble, and evaluate at Miag-ao, Iloilo. The System included the RAS frame, monitoring and control system, aeration system, and the solar-powered system. Powering the system required a 500 W Solar Panel and 50 Ah battery. Throughout the testing period, optimal water quality parameters of salinity (15 ppt to 20 ppt), pH (7.5 to 8.5), and temperature (22°C to 28°C) were monitored and controlled. After 5 days, comparisons revealed the difference in the growth, survival, and health rates of the crabs after being kept in a controlled environment in the system.