The blue revolution in India propelled the aquaculture industry to new heights of promising opportunities. As of now, India is the third largest fish-producing country, and it contributes 8% to the global fish production. In fact, the fish production in 2021-22 was 16.24 million tonnes, which comprises the marine fish production of around 4.12 million tonnes and over 12 million tonnes from aquaculture.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1910415#:~:text=India%20is%20the%20third%20largest,12.12%20Million%20Tonnes%20from%20Aquaculture.
For those who donтАЩt know what aquaculture is, it is the farming of aquatic creatures, usually for food, and globally, it is a $160 billion industry that provides over half of the worldтАЩs fish! Although aquaculture plays a substantial role in meeting the ever-growing global demand for seafood, at times maintaining optimal conditions in aquaculture systems can be challenging due to several factors. Whether we are talking about maintaining the water quality, and nutrient balance or preventing disease in the fishes, aquaculture isnтАЩt as easy as it seems.
To address these challenges and fix the cultivation conditions to optimum levels, the use of zeolite has skyrocketed in aquaculture. Wondering what zeolite is and how is it helpful? Here you go!
Understanding Zeolite
Well, zeolites are naturally-occuring minerals characterized by a three-dimensional framework of tetrahedral structures containing aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. These unique structures create channels and cages that can selectively trap and exchange ions. In aquaculture, clinoptilolite, a natural zeolite, is commonly used for its ion-exchange properties and ability to improve water quality. There are several advantages of zeolite, some of which are listed as follows:
Benefits of Zeolite in Aquaculture:
1. Improving Water Quality:
Mostly, zeolite is used for improving the water quality. In aquaculture, farming professionals use zeolite, as it can absorb and remove pollutants, such as ammonia, nitrite, and heavy metals from water, and this can be immensely helpful in maintaining a healthy environment for fish and other aquatic species.
2. Nutrient Retention and Release:
Another advantage of zeolites is they act as nutrient reservoirs by absorbing excess nutrients in the water and releasing them as necessary. Using zeolites for nutrient cycling can help maintain a balanced and stable environment for aquatic organisms and prevent nutrient imbalances that lead to algal blooms and other water quality issues.
Zeolite also has anti-microbial properties that make it effective in preventing the spread of diseases in aquaculture systems. The mineral can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms and significantly reduce the risk of infections among aquatic organisms while promoting a healthier life for them in a more productive environment.
Using Zeolite in Aquaculture
If you have made up your mind to use zeolite in aquaculture, for one you need to select the right type of zeolite. Then, clean it properly and activate it to maximize its iron-exchange capacity. You can do it through processes like washing, drying, and pre-soaking.
Talking about the application, there are several methods you can follow. One of the most common approaches is to place zeolite particles in mesh bags or trays and allow the water to flow throw them. Following this method ensures efficient iron exchange and water purification. In addition, you can also mix zeolite powder directly into the aquaculture substrate or pond bottom.
The next step is to regularly monitor the water parameters, such as the ammonia and nitrite levels when using zeolite in aquaculture. In addition, you can also periodically test the water to determine the effectiveness of zeolite in maintaining water quality. If necessary, you can also recharge the zeolite by soaking it in a salt solution, so it can release captured ions, and its adsorption capacity will be restored.
Ready to Use Zeolite in Aquaculture?
The aquaculture industry is growing with the expanding market demand, and using zeolite can play a substantial role in maximizing the health and productivity of aquatic ecosystems. Want more information, or ready to purchase zeolite in wholesale? Find it at Refit Animal Care today
