The Role of Calcium and Magnesium in Shrimp Farming in Small Greenhouses

2026-06-05

During the cultivation of shrimp in small greenhouses, calcium and magnesium not only directly affect shrimp growth but also help stabilize, regulate, and control water quality.

Promote shrimp growth and survival

Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for shrimp growth and development, serving as critical components in shell formation. Calcium deficiency can lead to soft shells, while magnesium deficiency impairs feed utilization, thereby hindering shrimp growth.

Reduce heavy metal toxicity

Calcium ions can reduce the toxicity of monovalent metal ions and heavy metal ions in aquatic environments, thereby mitigating heavy-metal–induced damage to shrimp.

Maintain osmotic pressure and acid–base balance

Calcium and magnesium can stabilize the water’s pH, enhance its buffering capacity, thereby maintaining osmotic pressure and acid–base balance, and preventing stress.

Enhance shrimp immunity

Enhance enzyme activity in shrimp, boost immunity, and reduce disease incidence.

Improve water quality and the environment

Calcium and magnesium are essential nutrients for aquatic microorganisms, promoting their growth and reproduction, accelerating the decomposition of organic matter, and improving the aquatic environment.

Caution is advised when supplementing with calcium and magnesium.

Shrimp absorb calcium and magnesium directly from the water more efficiently than from feed, but it’s important to maintain an appropriate ratio—1 part calcium to 3 parts magnesium.

Be sure to regularly test the calcium and magnesium levels in the water and adjust as needed.

In the pond, calcium and magnesium levels were measured: prior to application, the calcium ion concentration was 300 ppm and the magnesium ion concentration was 522 ppm; after application, these values increased to 740 ppm for calcium and 1,400 ppm for magnesium (these figures are based on on-site measurements in the pond and may contain minor discrepancies). Following use, the concentrations of calcium and magnesium in the water were significantly elevated.