Abstract: A system and a method of growing shrimp, allowing balanced processes to accomplish the intensive culture of shrimp while reducing the risk of loss due to disease or environmental contaminants. Specifically, the present invention involves a unique combination of elements including: the use of specific pathogen free marine animal stocks, facilities which are effectively disinfected and isolated from sources of disease vectors and environmental contaminants, a beneficial, synergistic microbial population, and an aqueous medium of controlled composition. The system also comprises a specialized feed for supporting the microorganisms and marine animals, with zero-exchange of aqueous medium throughout the growout cycle such that the solids formed during operation, uneaten feeds, and fecal matter are retained in the system to provide an environment suitable for high yields and growth rates of marine animals.

Abstract: A method for rearing commercially desirable bivalve molluscs such as oysters, clams, mussels, and scallops under artificial conditions to any marketable size in substantially reduced time periods. Oyster spat (<0.5mm) produced by known means are placed in growing tanks and fed at certain regular times with certain species of algae in unusually large quantities, at unusually high algal cell concentrations, and maintained at unusually high temperatures until oysters reach the desired size. The tanks and oysters are meticulously cleansed and seawater or other source of salts and minerals is added at regular times during the rearing period.