Prospects from raising turtles

Previously, Mr. Huynh Van Thang (Kien Binh commune, Tan Thanh district, Long An province) cultivated rice but it was ineffective and his income was unstable. After visiting a turtle farming model in Hau Giang province, he was impressed and researched turtle farming methods through various media channels. Recognizing the potential of turtle farming, its suitability to local conditions, and the high market demand, he decided to explore and learn more about it.

Mr. Huynh Van Thang (Kien Binh commune, Tan Thanh district) invested in two ponds with an area of ​​1,800 ^m2 to raise 7,000 softshell turtles.

At the end of 2024, Mr. Thang invested in renovating two existing ponds that his family had previously used for fish farming. On the ^1,800m² area of ​​the two ponds, he bought 7,000 juvenile softshell turtles to raise. After 7 months, he observed that the turtles were developing well , averaging over 500g each. Mr. Thang stated that this is an easy-to-raise animal that rarely gets sick.

However, to succeed, farmers must apply technical measures to ensure productivity and minimize losses during the breeding process. The ponds must have high embankments to withstand floods and be surrounded by sturdy corrugated iron sheets, with high, solid vertical walls to prevent the turtles from escaping. The water level in the breeding tanks should be maintained at approximately 30-50cm, and the bottom of the tank should be covered with a layer of mud or sand to prevent scratching of the turtles' bellies.

In the tank, place coconut husks or wooden racks so the turtles have a place to bask in the sun, and limit frequent water changes to maintain a stable living environment. Turtle food is diverse and easy to find, such as snails, chopped small fish, or store-bought food. Feeding portions should be moderate; avoid overfeeding to prevent excess food from polluting the water and causing disease in the turtles.

According to Nguyen Van Thuan, Chairman of the Farmers' Association of Kien Binh commune: "Mr. Thang's turtle farming model has great potential and has been selected by the commune's Farmers' Association to be replicated among its members and farmers. Currently, there are 3 households in the commune raising turtles with more than 11,500 turtles. The commune's Farmers' Association regularly pays attention to and creates favorable conditions for households to borrow preferential loans from the Social Policy Bank and the Farmers' Support Fund, and organizes many training courses on turtle farming techniques."

The success of aquaculture models implemented by farmers in the district in recent times has not only contributed to diversifying the forms and types of livestock but also opened up prospects for developing production models that bring high economic value to farmers.

Kim Nhan

Source: https://baolongan.vn/trien-vong-tu-nuoi-ba-ba-a197178.html