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Aquaculture pond bottom improvement measures
Ponds serve as habitats for aquaculture species, and the environmental conditions directly influence their survival and growth. Maintaining optimal water quality is essential for enhancing growth rates, reducing disease outbreaks, and achieving high yields and quality. A key component of this process is the improvement of sediment quality, which plays a crucial role in regulating pond ecosystems.
Over time, organic matter such as leftover feed, aquatic animal waste, and decomposed organisms accumulate at the bottom, forming sludge. While a moderate layer of sediment can provide nutrients and help buffer water quality changes, excessive buildup leads to several problems. Thick sediments reduce living space, consume oxygen, and release harmful substances like ammonia, methane, and hydrogen sulfide. This results in poor water quality, increased pathogen activity, and even heavy metal contamination in aquatic products. As a result, overgrown sediment contributes to slow growth, higher feed conversion ratios, oxygen deficiency, disease outbreaks, and elevated mortality rates.
To maintain a healthy pond ecosystem, regular sediment management is necessary. Several methods can be employed in practice:
1. **Physical Methods**: Dredging is commonly done during off-seasons like winter or early spring. The pond is drained, and silt is removed using water or mechanical tools. This method is cost-effective but requires sufficient space for mud disposal. It's recommended to remove 10–20 cm of dark black sediment every 1–2 years. Additionally, exposing the pond bottom to freezing and sunlight helps break down organic matter and kill pathogens. Ponds can also be cleaned, reinforced, and weeded to improve overall condition.
In some cases, dredging is performed without draining the pond. Two main types of dredgers are used: ship-type and submersible. Ship-type machines operate with only the suction head underwater, while submersible models work entirely underwater, requiring advanced waterproofing and maintenance.
Stirring the pond bottom and using aerators can also enhance oxygen levels and promote nutrient cycling. Physical modifiers like zeolite and activated charcoal help absorb harmful substances, though they may not fully address long-term issues.
2. **Chemical Methods**: Lime is widely used to improve water and sediment quality. It neutralizes acidity, kills pathogens, and enhances fertility. However, it should be applied carefully, especially in ponds with high calcium or alkalinity levels. Overuse can worsen organic decomposition and reduce fertility.
Other chemical treatments, such as calcium peroxide-based products, help increase dissolved oxygen and reduce toxic compounds like ammonia and nitrites. Newer agents like BRT (nitrite chelating agents) can also control heavy metals and improve sediment quality.
3. **Biological Methods**: Introducing beneficial organisms like nereis worms can help break down organic waste and improve oxygen levels in the sediment. Microbial agents such as photosynthetic bacteria and probiotics aid in decomposing organic matter and supporting the food chain. These biological solutions are eco-friendly and effective in maintaining long-term pond health.
4. **Other Practices**: Managing feeding and fertilization practices is critical. Avoiding overfeeding and over-fertilizing reduces excess organic accumulation. Proper fish stocking based on ecological balance and adjusting feed quantities according to environmental conditions can minimize waste. Adding attractants and digestive enhancers improves feed efficiency and reduces pollution.
In addition, removing excess aquatic plants and applying iron slag in blackened areas can help delay sediment degradation. Crop rotation during dry periods can further improve sediment quality by promoting aerobic decomposition and nutrient recycling.
By combining these strategies, aquaculturists can effectively manage pond sediments, ensuring a sustainable and productive environment for aquatic life.
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