Profitability Analysis of the White Leg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) Cultured at Different Stocking Densities in Brackish Ponds

Over the past decade, the cultivation of the vannamei shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) has expanded across Indonesia’s coastal regions due to its superior adaptability and economic potential compared to other shrimp species. Optimizing stocking density is crucial for maximizing productivity and profitability in shrimp farming. This study aimed to analyze the productivity and profitability of the vannamei shrimp cultivated under different stocking density systems in brackish water ponds. A census-based sampling approach was used to collect data from shrimp farms employing various stocking densities. Key production factors recorded included seed quantity, land area, feed usage, fertilizers, pesticides, probiotics, labor, supplements, shrimp yield, sales price, and water quality parameters. The collected data were analyzed using a t-test to determine statistical significance in profitability among different farming systems. The findings indicated that stocking density significantly impacts profitability. Among the cultivation systems analyzed, the intensive farming system with a stocking density of 208 shrimp/m² yielded the highest productivity and profitability, demonstrating superior economic performance compared to other systems. Intensive shrimp farming at 208 shrimp/m² is the most profitable system, suggesting that farmers should consider optimizing stocking density to enhance financial returns. Further research is recommended to assess long-term sustainability and environmental impacts.