Technology ramps up aquacultural development in Xifeng

An employee checks the growth of fish. [Photo/Tianyan news]

The intelligent aquaculture management system. [Photo/Tianyan news]

In recent years, Guizhou Shuizhiyuan New Agriculture Technology Development Co, a Xifeng county-based aquaculture company established in 2020, has overcome development bottlenecks through collaboration with Guizhou University and the Guizhou Institute of Hydrobiology. Today, its aquaculture farm produces 500 metric tons of commercial fish annually, with sales reaching 15 million yuan ($2.06 million).

In the early stages of establishing the farm, despite having a favorable environment and high-quality water sources, the mountainous terrain posed challenges. The limited surface area of water for fish farming and low unit yield constrained industrial development.

Collaboration with universities and research institutes brought the "mountainous land-based circular pond aquaculture" model. By constructing circular fish ponds on land and equipping them with a recirculating water treatment system, the farm achieved concentrated fish farming and wastewater purification for reuse.

In April 2024, the intelligent aquaculture management system was introduced. Inside its central control room, large screens display real-time data on fish pond temperature, water quality, and oxygen levels.

"Previously, we had to rely on frequent manual inspections to minimize risks and reduce losses. However, with the intelligent system, a single set of equipment allows us to monitor fish growth and pond conditions at any time. If the system detects an issue, we can immediately adjust farming strategies and take targeted measures," an employee explained.

The fish farmed here are highly sought after for their excellent taste and rich nutritional value. They sell well in local supermarkets and Sichuan, Chongqing, and Yunnan markets. Some processed products are even exported overseas.