The Science of the "Right" Harvest
Since starting in 2020, Marco has turned his initial curiosity into a precise operation. Managing 28 ponds is no small feat, especially when aiming for the premium sizes demanded by retailers like Kroger and Target.
Marco focuses on a 90-day cycle (DOC 90), pushing for a substantial shrimp size of 36/37. For Marco, the "perfect harvest" isn't just about luck; it’s the alignment of three critical pillars:
- The Right Seed: Starting with strong, healthy genetics.
- The Right Feed: Ensuring optimal nutrition for growth.
- The Right Market: Timing the harvest to meet global demand.
The Challenge of the Coast
Farming in Medan brings unique environmental hurdles. Unlike farms with direct access to the open ocean, Tambak 31 utilizes coastwater.
"The capacity we can take is not large," Marco explains. This limitation requires a high level of water management and efficiency. Because they can't simply pump infinite amounts of seawater, every drop must be managed with care, ensuring the shrimp thrive in a stable, controlled environment despite the logistical constraints.
The Golden Rule: Avoid Greed
Perhaps the most impactful lesson Marco has learned in his five years isn't about biology, but psychology. In a business where it's tempting to overstock ponds to chase higher profits, Marco warns against the "greed trap."
"Don’t be too greedy when farming," Marco advises. "I’ve experienced it myself. When we become greedy, the result we want to achieve will only get further out of reach."
By prioritizing the health of the ecosystem over maximum capacity, Marco ensures a consistent, high-quality supply of shrimp that eventually makes its way from Medan to dinner tables across the United States.
See Tambak 31 in Action
Want to see the 28 ponds of Tambak 31 and hear more about Marco’s journey from Medan?
