Dynamics of Water management in Aquaculture: Basic principles and concepts

Abstract

Regular and adequate supply of good quality water to the production facilities is the prime prerequisite for aquaculture practices. It is necessary to identify the best source of water to farms as the quality of water source vary from place to place. The coastal aquaculture farms are generally planned in the tidal and intertidal areas like near estuaries, bays, creeks, lagoons. The traditional and most economical method of water management for a coastal farm is through tidal flow, but in many cases, it is necessary to pump water, distribute water to sub units of farm especially when a farm is integrated with nursery and hatchery. For scientifically managing the culture practices, engineering principles plays a major role in the water supply of all phases of the production system viz, hatchery, nursery and growout systems (Odd-Ivar Lekang, 2007). To be specific water management with engineering perspectives is applied in farm production systems, starting from the site selection, layout & design of the farm, maintenance of the water quality in ponds and monitoring of the culture till harvest of the produce (shrimp /fish). The design and management of these systems is based on their production goals and the economics of the farming operation. Optimization and appropriate design of site-specific pond cages, pen anks, and recirculating systems need knowledge of logical, engineering and environmental systems ng with the dynamics of water management. This article is an effort to narrate the concept and application of applied engineering principles in the water management of aquaculture in both farm and hatchery. This includes details about water ince, distribution systems, usage of pumps, pipes, disinfection methods recirculation aquaculture