In the evolving landscape of sustainable aquaculture, diatom-assisted shrimp farming is emerging as a transformative approach—combining ecological balance with high productivity. A remarkable case from Kayamkulam, Kerala, stands as compelling evidence of this shift.
A Landmark Harvest in December 2025
In December 2025, Mr. Abhilash of Kandalloor, Kayamkulam, achieved an extraordinary production milestone through a diatom-assisted Vannamei shrimp culture system. From a single pond measuring 25 cents (0.1 hectare), the farm recorded a total harvest of approximately 4,060 kg of shrimp—a yield that is exceptional by any commercial standard.
The final harvest marked the third and concluding round, conducted after a 100-day culture period. The shrimps reached an impressive average size of 35 grams, corresponding to 28 counts per kilogram, reflecting both robust growth and uniformity. This result underscores not only high productivity but also superior shrimp health and quality.
Addressing Biofloc Challenges with Diatoms
Biofloc-based Vannamei shrimp farming has long been recognized for its potential to intensify production. However, farmers frequently encounter challenges such as:
- Dissolved oxygen (DO) fluctuations
- Ammonia and nitrogenous waste accumulation
- High energy consumption
- Continuous dependence on external carbon sources like molasses or sugar
The integration of diatoms into biofloc systems offers a natural, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable solution to these constraints. Diatoms act as:
- Natural oxygenators, improving DO stability
- Ammonia regulators, aiding nitrogen cycling
- Probiotic live feed, enhancing shrimp digestion and immunity
This multi-functional role makes diatoms a game-changer in modern shrimp aquaculture.
Field Training and Knowledge Transfer: February 2025
Recognizing the potential of this approach, Algagen Biosolutions LLP (now AlgaGenBio) and Kadavil Aquafarms jointly organized a one-day field training program on 16 February 2025 at Kayamkulam. The event brought together 20 participants, including shrimp farmers and academic professionals, for hands-on learning and field-level demonstrations.
The program focused on:
- Practical implementation of diatom-assisted biofloc systems
- Water quality management using microalgae
- Improving shrimp survival, growth rate, and feed efficiency
- Reducing operational and energy costs
The session highlighted how science-backed biological interventions can be directly translated into farm-level success.
Leadership, Collaboration, and Proof of Concept
The training program received valuable guidance and encouragement from Marine Products Export Development Authority, with special acknowledgment to Mr. M. Shaji, Former Joint Director (MPEDA), for his continued support to innovation-driven aquaculture practices.
A special mention is due to Mr. Abhilash of Kadavil Aquafarms, who has been successfully implementing diatom-assisted shrimp farming for over two consecutive years. His farm now serves as a living proof-of-concept, demonstrating that integrating diatoms with biofloc systems can significantly:
- Enhance shrimp growth and survival
- Improve product quality
- Lower dependency on external inputs
- Reduce overall production costs
Toward a Sustainable Aquaculture Future
The success story from Kayamkulam illustrates how microalgae-based interventions, when guided by scientific expertise and farmer collaboration, can redefine productivity benchmarks in shrimp farming. Diatom-assisted systems align seamlessly with the goals of sustainable aquaculture, environmental stewardship, and economic viability.
As global aquaculture faces increasing pressure to balance output with ecological responsibility, models like this one from Kerala offer a scalable, replicable, and future-ready solution—where nature and science work in harmony to feed the world.
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