Mudworms, commonly known as loaches, are not actually squid but are classified as scorpion-like creatures, inhabiting muddy environments. They are widely found in freshwater rivers, ditches, and paddy fields across China, and are one of the most common freshwater fish species. Known for their tender, delicious, and nutritious meat, they are often referred to as "water ginseng" due to their high nutritional value and traditional medicinal benefits. These small fish are believed to help regulate energy flow, quench thirst, improve urination, and even support sexual health, making them a popular tonic food in many regions.
Traditionally, loaches have been used in folk medicine to treat conditions such as hepatitis, diarrhea, skin itching, bruising, ascites, and urinary issues. As awareness of their health benefits has grown, so has their market value. In recent years, the price of mudworms has nearly doubled, making them a highly sought-after delicacy on Chinese dining tables. The demand is also strong internationally, with China exporting significant quantities. For instance, in 2005, Lianyungang port alone exported over 2,199 tons of loaches worth $3.649 million. This growing interest has led to increased efforts in aquaculture, especially in rice field farming systems, which offer a sustainable and profitable way to raise these fish.
Rice field farming of loaches involves several key steps:
**1. Selection and Preparation of Paddy Fields**
Choose fields with good water sources, clean water quality, and efficient irrigation and drainage systems. The soil should be loose, rich in organic matter, and capable of retaining moisture. The paddy should be constructed with a 30–40 cm height above the water level to prevent escape. The inner ridges should be steep and smooth, with boards installed along the edges to block escape routes. Additionally, nets or traps should be placed at the inlet and outlet to minimize fish loss.
**2. Digging Fish Ditches and Pits**
A fish ditch about 40–50 cm wide and 40 cm deep should be dug around the field, near the drainage outlet. A small fish pit (around 5 m²) should also be created near the outlet. These structures make up about 8–10% of the total paddy area, helping with feeding, medication, and easier harvesting.
**3. Fertilization**
Before stocking, spread 20 cm of mixed organic manure (chicken, pig, cow dung) in the fish ditch, followed by 10 cm of straw and 10 cm of soil. This helps promote the growth of natural food organisms for the loaches.
**4. Stocking Seedlings**
Stocking typically occurs 10–15 days after rice transplanting. Select healthy seedlings of uniform size and wash them in 3–5% saltwater for 5–10 minutes. For natural feeding, stock about 10–15 kg per acre when the fish are 3–4 cm long. If using intensive feeding, increase the stocking rate to 40–60 kg per acre.
**5. Feeding and Management**
Loaches can eat a variety of feeds, including wheat bran, soybean cake, and homemade bait. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet and use cost-effective, nutritious feed. Feed twice daily, with an amount equal to 3–5% of the fish's body weight. Feeding should take place in the fish ditch to ensure proper distribution.
**6. Field Management**
Water quality is crucial. Maintain a depth of about 6 cm and change water when it becomes too dark or thick. If the temperature exceeds 30°C or the water is too rich, fresh water should be added to regulate conditions. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides must be used carefully—apply urea at 4–5 kg/acre and ammonium sulfate at 8–10 kg/acre. Use low-toxicity pesticides and spray them while keeping the nozzle upward to avoid contamination. Regular inspections are necessary to check for damage, escape, and predators like snakes, ducks, and large fish.
**7. Harvesting**
Various methods are used to catch loaches, including traps, nets, and baited cages. Trapping is the most common method. Bait made from wheat flour, rice bran, and fish meal is placed inside the cage, which is set in the fish ditch. Nighttime is the best time for trapping, as loaches are more active then. With this method, 50–80% of the population can be harvested within an hour.
Overall, loach farming in rice fields is a promising and sustainable practice that combines agriculture with aquaculture, offering both economic and environmental benefits.
Counter Uav Radars,Counter Uav,Drone Jammer Radar,Drone Detection Radar
Hope Wish Photoelectronic Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.irhpws.com