Date of Award
5-1-2024
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Civil Engineering
First Advisor
Fakhraei, Habibollah
Abstract
Recently, the aquaculture sector has experienced the development of innovative systems like the Split Pond System (SPS) and Pond-Side Tank Culture System (PSTCS), which are designed for culturing Largemouth Bass (LMB). These systems are widely adopted in this industry due to their ability to reduce cannibalism, lower feed conversion ratios, increase yields, and enhance productivity and cost efficiency compared to the Traditional Pond System (TPS). In this study, SPS, PSTCS, and TPS were designed and constructed with three replications for each system. Each of the three systems was primarily characterized by its unique setup, particular stocking density, and water circulation rate. A protocol has been developed for performing field surveys to delineate the morphology, detailing the unique features of each system, and monitoring water quality parameters. This study also examined the growth, financial viability, and investment potential of three systems in a controlled environment. The SPS achieved the maximum growth rate of 1.13 g/day and TPS had the minimum growth rate of 0.76 g/day. Besides, the survival rate was highest for PSTCS (92%) and lowest for TPS (46%). The initial investment required for these three models ranged from $ 8219 to $2913 per 0.04-ha pond/tank. The SPS incurs the highest cost due to its specialized infrastructure requirements, such as concrete block walls, submersible pumps, and advanced equipment. Furthermore, a comparative study was assessed in terms of water quality in these three production systems designed for raising largemouth bass (LMB). Uniformity in stocked fish, water source, and feeding rate was maintained across the systems, with continuous monitoring using DO and temperature sensors. PSTCS exhibited lower dissolved oxygen levels during specific periods due to higher temperatures. Toxicity parameters, such as Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN) and Ammonia (NH3), were significantly higher in PSTCS due to the elevated temperatures and pH. SPS showed the lowest mean concentration of NO2, while alkalinity and hardness exhibited no significant differences across systems. The study highlighted increased phosphorus and chlorophyll-a levels in PSTCS, leading to excessive algal growth which decreased water flow by clogging. Hence, the study serves as a vital resource for decision-makers not only to be acquainted with the design, construction, and cost analysis of different culture systems but also to understand the changes in water chemistry within these systems to optimize yields.
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