In a recent interview, Ding Fabing, the head of the Dingguanying Village Cooperative in Yuzhong County, Lanzhou, highlighted some exciting developments in the local aquaculture sector. “This year, we introduced 620,000 shrimp larvae and implemented a bio-purification recycling system,” he shared. “As a result, our shrimp are growing rapidly with a low disease rate.” Following the Cold Dew solar term, the village has seen a surge in orders for their South American shrimp, celebrated for its tender texture and sweet flavor, leading to demand that outstrips supply. After only two years on the Loess Plateau, they are on track to exceed 10,000 pounds in annual production.

Yuzhong County, located in the eastern suburbs of Lanzhou, is part of the Yellow River basin, featuring extensive waterways, including the main branch of the Yellow River and three additional rivers: Wanchuan, Guanchuan, and Taohe. The Yellow River flows through four townships over 35 kilometers, while the other rivers extend for 97 kilometers through more than ten townships, totaling a watershed area of about 3,188 square kilometers.

With its rich network of water resources and distinct seasons, Yuzhong County boasts ideal conditions for fishery development. In recent years, the county has capitalized on its geographical and resource advantages, optimizing its fishery structure. Authorities are focusing on scientific planning, promoting genetic innovation, eco-friendly farming, and brand development within the aquaculture sector.

Recent statistics show that traditional aquaculture species such as grass carp, silver carp, bighead carp, and common carp have all experienced stable production growth this year. Additionally, imported premium species like California sea bass, rainbow trout, and koi have also proven to be lucrative. The total aquaculture area in Yuzhong County has now reached 2,257.25 acres, with the majority located in Qincheng, Xinying, and Gancao townships. An aquatic product yield of 250 tons is anticipated this year.

The thriving local fishery inspired Liu Zhijun to return home and embark on his aquaculture journey. At Yuxing Farm, Liu is hosting a unique livestream sales event in a fish farming greenhouse, showcasing various ornamental fish while providing care tips to his viewers. Brightly colored koi, elegant long-tailed lions, and graceful phoenix fish are particularly popular among consumers.

A graduate of Dalian Ocean University in 2014 with a major in aquaculture, Liu Zhijun refined his skills in advanced farming techniques and management in cities like Shanghai and Chengdu. He launched his own aquaculture company in 2021, initially concentrating on ornamental fish sales before expanding into rainbow trout hatching and fry cultivation. By blending traditional farming methods with modern technology, he has developed an efficient aquaculture model tailored to local conditions.

Inspired by Liu’s success, neighboring farmers have begun engaging in the production of high-quality aquatic products, adopting more scientific farming techniques. This year, a decision was made to establish a new rainbow trout farm in Fenhuocha Village to diversify the village’s economic structure and promote collective economic growth.

In conjunction with fish farming, Yuzhong County is exploring ecological models like “lotus-fish coexistence” and “rice-fish symbiosis” to integrate natural landscapes with agricultural production. Zhang Yuansi, head of Yuzhong Wuliang Breeding Farm, shared, “This year, we planted 100 acres of rice, expecting a yield of over 1,200 pounds per acre, while producing 1,000 pounds of fish in the same area. We also cultivated 36 acres of lotus, yielding one ton per acre.” This eco-agriculture approach not only optimizes land use and economic returns but also fosters the melding of agriculture with culture and tourism.

Jin Hailin, director of the Yuzhong Animal Husbandry and Aquatic Technology Promotion Center, stated that the county will expedite the modernization of aging ponds to stabilize and enhance fish farming operations. Additionally, efforts will focus on advancing facility aquaculture, managing abandoned ponds, and rehabilitating saline-alkali lands. These initiatives aim to improve the quality of aquatic products, increase farmers’ incomes, and boost the overall effectiveness of the aquaculture industry, supporting sustainable growth throughout the county.