Pond Aquaculture Water Quality Management

The only hope of supplying the world's ever-increasing demand for aquatic food products is through aquaculture, and the vast majority of this is conducted in ponds. Although pond aquaculture may appear at first to be an archaic method of growing aquatic animals, it is one that is consistently profitable when the pond is managed properly. The most important aspect of pond management is the maintenance of adequate environmental conditions for good growth and health of the animal under culture. Water quality in ponds also extends into the areas of environmental protection and food quality and safety, which are increasingly important in today's world. This book provides the most complete, up-to-date account of water quality and its management in aquaculture ponds. It provides background information on the physical, chemical, and biological environment of pond aquaculture, and illustrates how the proper balance of these factors is the essential ingredient for successful production of fish and other aquatic animals. Management techniques for the control of water quality and productivity include liming, fertilization, mechanical aeration, water exchange, and the use of algicides and herbicides. The authors examine the effects of pollution on aquaculture and the validity of current criticisms by environmentalists. This book will be of great benefit to students, extension agents, policy-makers, government officials and the commercial aquaculture industry.