Biofloc Technology: Optimizing Aquaculture through Microbial Innovation
Jham Lal
College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura-799210, India.
Anand Vaishnav *
College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura-799210, India.
Khushwant Singh Brar
College of Fisheries, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab-141004, India.
Sahil
Farm Science Center, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tarn Taran, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab-141004, India.
Durgesh Kumar Verma
ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal-700120, India.
Rajesh Jayaswal
ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal-700120, India.
Lavkush
College of Fisheries, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Sourabh Debbarma
TNJFU-Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, India.
Devati
College of Fisheries, Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India.
Shailendra Kumar *
ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal-700120, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Biofloc technology (BFT) is an innovative approach in aquaculture that provides substantial advantages for the implementation of sustainable and efficient aquaculture techniques. BFT entails the careful management of water quality and the provision of nutrients to cultivated aquatic organisms by adding carbon sources in a balanced manner. This supports the formation of advantageous microbial communities. The biofloc is an assemblage of organic material and microbes that is abundant in proteins. It functions as a natural source of food for species such as tilapia and prawns, hence decreasing the reliance on costly commercial feeds. This self-contained system aids in water conservation, fertiliser recycling, and waste and pollution reduction in comparison to traditional aquaculture methods. BFT additionally boosts the immune system of aquatic species, diminishing the likelihood of prevalent illnesses and fostering overall well-being. Nevertheless, the technology necessitates meticulous control of variables like as carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, water temperature, and dissolved oxygen in order to uphold a stable and fruitful environment. Although there are certain operational difficulties, BFT proves to be a viable approach for attaining sustainable aquaculture by enhancing output while minimising the negative effects on the environment.
Keywords: Biofloc technology, microbial community, carbon nitrogen cycling, biofloc formation, Sustainability