Aquaculture America 2023

February 23 - 26, 2023

New Orleans, Louisiana USA

ENHANCED BENEFITS OF BIOCHAR FOR USE IN RECIRCULATING AQUACULTURE SYSTEMS

Since the oceans can no longer be looked at to provide us with all the fish we need as a population, we must rely on aquaculture to supply the rest. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) are getting larger and are quickly becoming one of the most common techniques used in raising fish for food. The increase in technological advancements and efficiencies have enhanced our abilities to raise more fish in a smaller volume of water than ever before, and every step we can take to improve on water quality benefits the productive capacity of these systems. Biochar is a carbonized product that comes in a variety of sizes can be made from a variety of organic substrates under high heat and low oxygen. Under these conditions the organic material is carbonized, preserving its cellular structure, and creating a unique, chemically stable and versatile product. When used as a substrate for a trickling filter within a RAS, biochar’s properties allow it to surpass any current available substrate for nitrification while at the same time provide the ability to virtually eliminate all suspended solids from the flow, enhancing water quality, disinfection and oxygen use efficiencies, fish health and fish feed efficiency. The use of a trickling filter, composed of bamboo biochar, as part of a RAS facility is discussed for its benefits and limitations.