Development methods in aquaponics systems using biofloc to improve water quality (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate) and growth of tilapia and samhong mustard

ABSTRACT

Development methods of the Flood & Drain (F&D) Aquaponics Systems, an integration of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), and Samhong Mustard (Brassica juncea L) using Biofloc Technology (BFT) have been carried out. The objective of this study is to develop an aquaponic method by applying biofloc technology to obtain optimum water quality (ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate). This system consists of Fish Tank (FT), Mechanical Filter Tank (MFT), Biofilter Tank (BT), and Hydroponic Subsystem (HS), also supported by water recirculation and aeration. Water sampling is carried out in FT, BT, and HS. Based on research conducted, ammonia (0.3013–5.9625)mg/L, nitrite (0.1438–0.3774)mg/L, and nitrate (1.0764–9.33923)mg/L. Even though there are parameters (ammonia and nitrite) that have exceeded the threshold, but nitrifying bacteria can grow well, as well as Biolacto sp. is able to increase high fish survival (95%), and accelerate rapid fish growth (length growth rate was 2.9254%, and weight growth rate was 5.1426%) and Samhong Mustard growth (plant height and the number of leaves). In plants, no yellowing plants are found because of an adequate supply of nutrients. Therefore, the application of BFT in aquaponics is feasible for improving water quality, and further research is needed to improve this technology.

KEYWORDS:

• Biofloc Technology
• hydroponic subsystem
• water recirculation
• aeration

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).