Tag nitrification

A recent study at the Federal University of Rio Grande in Brazil showed that it is possible to reduce the C:N ratio in biofloc cultures, to decrease the water volume used and the total suspended solids produced, with resulting savings. 

Total alkalinity is an important variable in water for aquaculture systems, and its concentration frequently fluctuates over time in many culture systems. 

An important criterion when studying biofilters is the conversion rate of total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) to nitrate-nitrogen in production water. Although nitrification rates have been based on media surface areas, they do not always reflect the actual nitrification achieved. Volumetric TAN conversion rate is a direct measure based on filter volume. 

A range of alternative products is available to improve animal health and water quality, and control pathogen loads. Beneficial microbes produce antimicrobial compounds and suppress pathogen proliferation. 

Healthy populations of both ammonia- and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria must be present in aquaculture systems to support the nitrification of potentially toxic ammonia to nitrite, with further oxidation to less problematic nitrate. 

In the water of aquaculture systems, certain bacteria transform potentially toxic ammonia to nontoxic nitrate through nitrification. 

Study evaluates nitrification rates of three fluidized-bed filters, finding no significant changes in fluidization level as biofilm accumulated or was sheared off.