A new study has demonstrated the significant benefits of using mixed biochar amendments to improve water quality and the well-being of the whiteleg shrimp, Penaeus vannamei (Boone, 1931), within inland saline aquaculture systems. Conducted over 60 days, the experiment highlighted how biochar derived from paddy straw and banana peduncles can optimize conditions for shrimp farming under challenging saline conditions.
The study, undertaken at experimental aquaculture sites, involved fortifying inland ground saline water, treating it with different biochar mixes, and observing the shrimp's growth metrics and physiological condition. Biochar treatments, particularly those combining both paddy straw and banana peduncle biochar, showed significant improvements over control conditions, where no amendments were made. This combination treatment yielded the highest shrimp survival rate of 92%, alongside reductions in harmful ammonia levels, which are often toxic to aquatic life.
Environmental challenges are forcing shifts within aquaculture practices, especially as groundwater salinization presents growing threats to food security and aquatic ecosystems. Given the increasing levels of salinity affecting around 12 lakh hectares of arable land and freshwater aquaculture in India, the exploration of biochar usage emerges as a proactive strategy.
The experiment revealed promising data: shrimp grown under biochar amendments exhibited not only improved growth rates but also healthier physiological states. The final body weights, weight gain percentages, and feed conversion ratios of shrimp reared on biochar-treated sediment were statistically significant. The mixed biochar treatment led to the highest feed efficiency, enabling shrimp to convert feed more effectively and resulting in greater growth.
Importantly, this research sheds light on the role of potassium, often deficient in saline systems, which the biochar provided. The amendment of mixed biochar improved potassium levels by more than 300% compared to untreated water, creating more favorable living conditions for shrimp.
Through biochemical assessments, the shrimp from biochar treatments demonstrated lower glucose levels indicative of reduced stress. Conversely, key enzymes linked to digestive health, such as lipase and protease, were higher, signifying enhanced nutrient absorption and overall health. This interconnected web of improvements suggests biochar acts not merely as a mineral supplement but also as a catalyst for broader physiological benefits.
Prior studies reaffirm the positive influence of biochar on nutrient availability, mitigating harmful ammonia concentrations, and improving overall aquaculture conditions. Biochar's porous structure enhances soil health and rebalances ionic compounds, promoting nutrient retention and aquatic organism growth.
Despite these encouraging outcomes, the authors stress the necessity for continued research to unpack the complex interactions at play, emphasizing the need for improved methodologies around biochar application to fully realize its potential within aquaculture systems globally.
Biochar's emergence as a potent ally for sustainable aquaculture aligns with the push toward environmentally friendly practices, capable of transforming how global aquaculture addresses rising saline challenges.