Phytoplankton Control in Aquaculture

In the aquaculture industry, water quality management is a core factor that directly impacts the success and sustainability of production activities. One of the most critical elements in the aquatic ecosystem is the presence and development of phytoplankton (also known as planktonic algae). Phytoplankton plays an essential role in the pond ecosystem, from providing dissolved oxygen and serving as a natural food source, to its ability to remove harmful substances like ammonia nitrogen from the water. However, when not properly controlled, excessive phytoplankton blooms can cause negative effects, impacting the health and productivity of cultured species.

The Role of Phytoplankton in Aquaculture Ponds

Phytoplankton is an integral part of the pond environment as they:

• The first link in the natural food chain: Phytoplankton serves as an important natural food source for small crustaceans and juvenile fish, especially in ponds where industrial feed is provided. They play a crucial role in maintaining the survival and growth of cultured species.
• Provide dissolved oxygen: Phytoplankton produces a significant amount of oxygen through photosynthesis, helping to maintain dissolved oxygen levels in pond water, which is particularly important during the day when the oxygen demand of the cultured species increases.
• Remove ammonia nitrogen: Phytoplankton has the ability to absorb ammonia nitrogen, a potentially harmful substance in water, reducing risks related to water quality and the health of cultured species.
• Control the growth of benthic plants: The turbidity created by phytoplankton limits light penetration to the pond bottom, preventing the excessive growth of benthic plants, thereby contributing to the ecological balance in aquaculture ponds.

Negative Impacts of Excessive Blooms

Although phytoplankton offers many benefits, their excessive growth, especially during blooms, can lead to serious issues:

• Oxygen depletion at night: At night, the respiration process of phytoplankton and other organisms in the pond can reduce dissolved oxygen levels to dangerously low levels, leading to stress or even death for fish and shrimp.
• Increased pH due to CO2 depletion: Excessive photosynthesis during the day can deplete CO2 in the water, leading to a rise in pH, which disrupts the biological balance in the pond and can harm cultured species.
• Unpleasant odors and reduced product quality: Certain blue-green algae species can produce unpleasant compounds such as geosmin and MIB, causing fish and shrimp to absorb these odors, thereby reducing product quality. Fish with these odors are often less desirable in the market.
• Toxic algae: In some cases, the excessive growth of toxic algae can lead to the accumulation of toxins in shellfish and fish, posing a danger to consumer health and potentially causing fatalities if these products are consumed.

Phytoplankton Control Solutions: Utilizing Modern Monitoring Equipment

To control phytoplankton and ensure water quality in aquaculture ponds, the application of modern monitoring technology is essential. Equipment from bbe Moldaenke – exclusively distributed by Reecotech in Vietnam – offers advanced solutions for phytoplankton monitoring and management.

• Advanced Optical Measurement Technology: Devices such as the AlgaeTorch and FluoroProbe use advanced optical technology, allowing for precise measurement of chlorophyll concentrations and different algae species in the water. This enables aquaculturists to monitor the phytoplankton status in ponds quickly and accurately, as well as detect early signs of abnormalities.
• 24/7 Online Monitoring: The AlgaeOnlineAnalyser device provides continuous 24/7 monitoring, helping to detect early changes in water quality. Data is continuously updated, supporting managers in making timely decisions to prevent issues related to oxygen levels or excessive algae growth.
• Durable and Easy-to-Use Design: bbe Moldaenke’s devices are compact, robust, and easy to use, suitable for operation both in laboratories and in the field, meeting the needs of use in harsh environmental conditions.
• System Integration Capability: These devices can easily integrate into existing water environment management systems, including SCADA systems and other data management systems, creating a comprehensive and efficient monitoring system that helps aquaculturists better control environmental factors in ponds.

Conclusion

Phytoplankton management is an integral part of ensuring water quality and production efficiency in aquaculture. With the support of modern monitoring equipment from bbe Moldaenke and Reecotech, aquaculturists can be more proactive in controlling environmental factors, thereby optimizing yield and ensuring product quality. The application of advanced technology not only helps in early detection of issues related to excessive algae growth but also provides effective solutions for treatment, minimizing risks and enhancing production efficiency. Reecotech is committed to providing advanced phytoplankton monitoring solutions to protect and enhance your aquaculture operations. Contact Reecotech today for detailed consultation and to select the appropriate equipment for your aquaculture system.