The growth and development of leeches are strongly influenced by light exposure. By carefully managing light conditions during cultivation, the positive effects of light on their growth, maturation, and reproductive performance can be maximized. This not only improves productivity but also lowers costs and enhances overall profitability in leech farming.
Light control involves using artificial or advanced electronic systems to mimic natural light cycles. This allows farmers to regulate the amount and intensity of light that leeches receive, creating optimal conditions for breeding, moulting, and overall development. By doing so, the production process becomes more predictable and efficient, aligning with human management goals.
Over time, leeches have evolved to synchronize their life cycle with natural photoperiods. In the wild, they reproduce once a year and shed their skin twice, responding to seasonal changes in daylight. With controlled lighting, however, breeders can manipulate these cycles. For instance, leeches can be bred year-round, with their reproductive cycle shortened to three times annually. Early maturation and harvesting also reduce feed and labor costs, significantly cutting down on expenses.
Artificial light control is not dependent on the actual date of the season. Even during summer, providing a short day period can stimulate the growth of winter hairs. However, it's important to understand the timing of these stages. Leeches go through a winter hair growth phase, and once this is complete, extending the light duration can speed up sexual maturation without triggering summer hair growth. If light is extended too early—before winter hair matures—it can interfere with both hair development and reproductive progress. Therefore, timing is crucial when implementing light control strategies.
To shorten the reproduction cycle, many farmers begin light manipulation around December 21st, starting with one hour of daily light. The duration is gradually increased—by 15 to 30 minutes every five days—until reaching 15 hours and 25 minutes by May 1st. This method has proven effective in boosting fertility rates.
For promoting winter hair maturation, light control usually starts on June 21st. Farmers often use 40-watt fluorescent lights, adjusting the light cycle to twice the natural rate and changing it weekly. This helps accelerate the development of winter hair, which typically matures by October 6th.
After breeding, the lights are kept on for about 14.5 hours daily. The light booth cover is opened to ensure full exposure until the offspring are fully developed. This practice results in healthier, more vigorous young leeches with higher survival rates.
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