Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Integrated duck-fish farming requires synchronized livestock management.
Knowing the exact timeline for duck development is necessary to manage feed costs and egg production cycles.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Egg-laying duck breeds (such as the Khaki Campbell, commonly used in integrated aquaculture) reach sexual maturity around \(20\text{ to }24\) weeks of age.
This corresponds to approximately \(5\text{ to }6\) months of age, at which point they begin laying eggs consistently.
Hence, \(6\) months is the standard and correct reference point.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The duck starts laying eggs after the age of 6 months.