Dedicated To Tribal Aquaculture Programs
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March 1999 ~ Volume 27 | |
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Topics of Interest:
Product Manufactures
ProductManufactures
Once again its time for the MTAN to clear out all the papers thataccumulate during the course of the year. This time the pile that deals with productinformation is becoming unmanageable and needs to be dealt with. Remember the time thatyou needed to buy a fish tank or pump and you wanted to call different manufactures tofind the best price. This next article may help you do just that. In the last issue of theMTAN we listed all the previous articles by subject and volume number. For a listing ofthe previous MTAN=S that has shown product manufactures you may want to look at volumes;1, 3, 5, 8, and 18.
Aeration Systems:
Air-O-Lator, 800-821-3177, www.airolator.com
Aquatic Control, 812-497-2410.
Arbor Research, 313-741-9199.
Area, 305-248-4205, Email: areainc@aol.com
Fresh-Flo, 414-528-8236.
Kasco Marine, 715-262-4488.
Master Systems, 800-533-6748.
Point Four Systems, 800-267-9936.
The Power House, 800-242-4741.
S&N Sprayer, 601-453-4524.
Westmoor, 800-367-0972.
Bird Control:
Bird-X, 800-662-5021.
Disinfection/Footbath:
Nelson-Jameson, 800-826-8302.
Drumfilters/Screen and BiologicalFiltration:
Aquaculture Systems Technology, 800-939-3659, www.beadfilters.com
Bio-Con Labs, 352-376-8016.
Hydrotech, 504-627-3930.
Red Ewald, 800-242-3524.
Water Garden Gems, 800-682-6098.
Water Management Technologies, 504-627-3930, Email: wmtech@compuserve.com
Egg Incubation Systems
MariSource, 800-851-1510.
Midland Plastics, 414-783-3460.
General Fish Culture Needs:
Aquacenter , 800-748-8921, www.tecinfo.com/~aqcenter
Aquatic Control, 812-497-2410.
Aquatic Eco-Systems, 407-886-3939, Email: aes@aquaticeco.com
Aquaculture Supply, 352-567-8540.
Eagar, 800-423-6249.
Stoney Creek Equipment, 800-448-3873.
Southern Aquaculture Supply, 800-850-7274, Email: sasi@infogo.com
Fish Feed:
AquaVet, 510-782-4058.
Bio Marine, 310-973-5275.
Bonneville Artemia International, 800-274-1047.
Burris Mill & Feed, 800-928-2782.
Corey Aquaculture, 800-561-0072.
Earthrise Animal Health, 209-855-3804, Email: petfeed@earthrise.com
Integral Fish Foods, 970-242-2798.
Moore-Clark, 800-561-8881.
Prime Artemia, 801-978-9337.
Rangen Aquaculture Feeds, 800-657-6446.
Shur-Gain, Extruded Fish Feed, 800-565-9440.
Western Brine Shrimp International, 801-364-3642.
Zeigler Bros., 800-841-6800.
Fish Feeders:
Sweeney, 800-443-4244.
Fish Graders:
Fresh-Flo, 800-493-3040.
Magic Valley Heli-Arc & Mfg., 208-733-0503.
Fish Processing:
Fishmore , 519-977-5993.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Cleveland Process, 800-241-0412.
Delta Hydronics, 813-938-2225.
Fridgid Units, 419-474-6971.
Nets and Seines:
ADPI Enterprises, 800-621-0275.
Bayeux Fabrics, 800-446-9611.
Christianson Nets, 800-372-1142.
Fitec International, 800-332-6387, Ext. 107.
Fuhrman Diversifed, 713-474-1388.
Innovative Net Systems, 318-856-7313, www.net-connect.net/~trsins
Internet, 800-328-8456.
NSW, 800-368-3610.
Nycon Products, 800-534-9266.
Nylon Net, 800-238-7529.
Memphis Net & Twine, 800-238-6380.
Sea-Gear, 407-728-9116.
Tenax, 888-424-0965.
Net Pens:
Coosa Catfish Cages, 205-377-2463.
Inqua, 212-840-3333.
Oxygen Meters:
Royce Instrument, 800-347-3505.
Common Sensing, 208-266-1541, www.dmi.net/comsen
Ozone, Filtration and Ultraviolet Systems:
Aqua, 800-454-2725.
Aquanetics Systems, 619-291-8444.
Rainbow Lifegard Aquarium Products, 800-628-8771.
Ozonia, 201-794-3100.
Pipe, Valves, Tubing and Fittings:
Industrial Thermoplastic Solutions, 800-262-4300.
RyanHerco, 800-848-1141, www.ryanherco.com
Valterra Products, 818-898-1671.
Pond, Tank, Raceway Liners (Covers):
CIM, 800-543-3458.
Cooley, 800-444-4023.
Poly-Flex, 800-527-3322.
Reef Industries, 800-231-2417, www.reefindustries.com
Yunker Plastics, 414-249-5233.
Pond Water Supplements:
Applied Biochemists, 800-558-5106.
Aquatic Control, 812-497-2410.
Becker-Underwood, 800-232-5907.
Cascade Water Services, 516-932-3030.
Pressure Washers:
Coastal Hydraulics, 603-474-1914.
Pace Manufacturing, 800-827-1610.
Rearing Tanks:
Alchem, 800-353-0083.
Dolphin Fiberglass Products, 305-247-1748, http://members.aol.com/dolphinfbg/index.htm
Gemini Fiberglass Products, 303-278-0033.
LeGay Fiberglass Limited, 902-860-0822,Email: legay@legay.com
Polytank, 800-328-7659.
Rowland Fiberglass, 512-776-7753.
Solar Components, 603-668-8186, www.solar-components.com
Recirculating Systems:
Advanced Aquaculture Systems, 813-653-2823.
Aquacare Environment, 360-734-7964.
Aquaculture Systems Technologies, 800-939-3659, Email: aquasys@aoa.com
Diamond Water Systems, 800-245-6601.
Emperor Aquatics, 610-970-0440.
Red Ewald, 800-242-3524.
Sludge Pump:
Nuhn Industries, 519-393-6284.
System Design:
Applied Aquatics, 803-971-9639, Email:AAquatics@aol.com
Transport Tanks:
Aquaneering, 858-541-2028, Email: info@aquaneering.com
Lance Industries, 919-745-4146.
LeGay Fiberglass Limited, 902-860-0822, Email:legay@legay.com
Magic Valley Heli-Arc & Mfg., 208-733-0503.
Peterson Fiberglass Laminates, 715-468-2306.
Reiff Manufacturing, 509-525-1081.
Vaccines:
Alpharma, 425-882-0448.
Aqua Health, 208-543-5369.
AquaVet, 510-782-4058.
Argent Chemical Laboratories, 800-426-6258.
Veterinarian Services:
Wisconsin Aquatic Veterinary Service, 608-246-0765.
Water Quality/Monitoring
AquaTrak Systems, 800-655-1047.
Bio Marine, 310-973-5275.
Balanced Aqua Systems, 800-424-3775, Email:8050649@ivic.net
Hydrolab, 800-949-3766
LaMotte, 800-344-3100.
Water Quality Science International, 800-558-9442.
YSI, 800-765-4974, www.ysi.com
NewStuff Now on The Market
Solar-Powered lights:
Introduced in Fish Farming News justabout a year ago, solar-powered lights from Carmanah Research are ideal for mounting onbuoys to mark aquaculture sites. Specifically designed for use in marineenvironments, Carmanah Lights feature components like solar cells, power storage, lightsource (LEDs), and electronic circuitry - all contained within a compact unit, sealed inpolymer for protection against moisture and impact. Economical to use, they have nobulbs or batteries to replace. These lights charge during daylight hours, even undercloud cover, and emit a vibrant steady or flashing light throughout the night. Lights are available in amber, red, green, and white. For more information callInternational Industries, Inc., Annapolis, MD; (410) 990-0566, or fax (410) 990-0569.
Fish Tanks:
The Green Line series of rotationallymolded fiberglass fish tanks integrates a unique solid waste separation system within eachtank. In these tanks, which are designed for research and education, fish hatcheries, andfor growout use on farms - wastes are removed via one outlet, located centrally at thebase of the tank. A second outlet at the midwater level removes the primary flow ofclarified culture water, for discharge or reuse, depending on the system. A small flow ofwater is used to transport wastes into storage beneath the tank; then solids are flushedfrom each tank daily to a central storage tank or lagoon. According to independenttesting, the Green Line Fish Tank removes more than 99% of total suspended solids; 74% ofBOD; and 65% of particulate phosphorus. Single-piece tanks are available up to 4 meters indiameter; larger diameter tanks are fabricated in sections. Custom tanks are available inany size or shape. Green Line tanks are manufactured by Waterline Ltd. and marketed byAlchem Industries. For more information call Alchem Industries, Charlottetown, PEI,Canada; (800) 353-0083.
AquaMats:
AquaMats are a new aquaculture product made from polymer substrates and aredesigned to use photosynthetic and bacteriological processes to produce natural foodresource, primarily phytoplankton, zooplankton and bacteria. At the same time thatAquaMats generate a continuously replenished food resource, the product provides aquaticstructure (to support higher stocking densities, reproduction and reduced predation) andeffective control of ammonia and excess nutrients. AquaMats substantially increase yield,lower production costs and provide natural biofiltration for a wide range of fresh andsalt water aquatic species.
AquaMats rely on an integral ballast system that allows the lower portionof the product to rest on the base of the aquatic environment in which it is placed. Theindividual AquaMat ribbons are highly buoyant and extend upward in the water column.Particularly in larval rearing and for juvenile fishes, AquaMats produce remarkableincreases in biomass based on increased survival and growth. The results experienced usingAquaMats with many warm and cold species indicate that the most important contribution isfood production, particularly calenoid copepod production (typically increased 700% to2,000%). For natural rearing, AquaMats have shown tremendous promise used with a number ofimportant Salmonids.
AquaMats are highly durable, UV stabilized and guaranteed to performadequately for four (4) years or more. The component substrates used in fabrication ofAquaMats are food-grade in quality and will not leach or degrade into waters where theproduct is installed. Where sterilization is necessary, AquaMats may be fully sterilizedby all conventional techniques, including steam and chlorine applications.
The manufacturer, Meridian Applied Technology Systems, L.L.C., extends toits commercial customers a guarantee that its AquaMats will pay for themselves inincreased biomass production and reduced production costs during the first eighteen (18)months of use or Meridian will refund the difference to the customer. Meridian may becontacted at 301-937-1240, by E-mail at meridianam@aol.com
Pond Liners:
Yunker Plastics,of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, make pond and tank lining affordable and practical withAQUA-WEVE. AQUA-WEVE is a woven, reinforced polyolegin fabric that gives superior strengthwithout added weight. Clear and colored materials are available and UV additives providesuperior weathering for long-term applications. The materials are free of plasticizers andother additives that could leak out, which make them safe for most uses, including potablewater.
Yunker Plastics can manufacture liners in large sections minimizing theneed for field seaming. "Do-It-Yourself" installation for lower installationcosts is also possible. Fitted, circular and square cornered tank liners are available.High density polyethylene up to 30 mil, reinforced polypropylene materials and geotextilesfor underlayments and ground stabilization are also available. For more information,contact Yunker Plastics, Inc., PO Box 190, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, or call 1-800-236-3328.
PP76 TM (Pond Liner):
Developed with Montell Polyolefins,the reactor-process polypropylene resin integrated with Cooley proprietary technology andfabric offers many benefits to engineers designing with geomembranes. The Cooley productdoes not contain "fillers or extenders," and has excellent ultraviolet (UV)resistance for outstanding weatherability in exposed applications. Cooley geomembranes arebacked by up to a 20 year written weathering warranty. The high performance of the CooleyPP-R liners is a combination of a high strength polyester scrim, tough polypropylenepolymer and a unique and proprietary manufacturing process.
Cooley Polypropylene provides the end-user with a liner product that canbe supplied in panels up to one-half acre in size to expedite installation and minimizethe amount of field seaming. These large panels can be supplied through our network offabricators throughout the USA and abroad. To expedite installation the Cooleypolypropylene can be prefabricated and delivered to the site in large custom sized panels.This method allows the area to be lined with the minimum of material and "fieldseaming." With the excellent seaming and related characteristics of thepolypropylene, the usual problems with field seaming using other products are eliminated.For more information call Stephen Siener at Cooley Engineering Membranes at 800-444-4023.
Aquaculture Structures:
B&K installations, a Floridabased manufacturer of green houses, shade houses, and energy-efficient controlledenvironment structures, introduces the new hydrohouse. This structure is designed toincorporate the newest hydroponic and aquaponic technology and can be adapted to providecustomers with the proper area and clearances required for each application. In additionto hydroponic, aquaculture, and aquaponic structures, B&K installations has the designand manufacturing capabilities to provide customers with structures that will meet theirspecific needs to also cover above ground circular tank systems, raceways, and in groundponds. Contact B&K Installations for a free product brochure at B&K Installations246 Southwest 4 Ave., Homestead. FL 33030. Ph. 800-523-3870 (Toll Free USA), 800-6247612(Toll Free FL), 305-245-8119 (fax), 305245-6968 (local). E-mail: bkinstall @ aol.com Web site: www.bkinstall.com
Aquaculture Greenhouses:
Structures Unlimited Plantation gutter-connected or free-standing greenhouses area cost-effective choice for the aquaculturists. They feature a simple, strong design thatcan withstand high winds and adverse weather conditions. Using only one center purlin, thesemi-gothic arch shape offers maximum headroom even close to the sides of the house. Theslightly peaked roof eliminates the potential problem of condensate dripping.
The aquaculture greenhouse is inherently strong because it is built withgalvanized high-strength alloy steel tube with a certified minimum of 50155 psi. Allhardware is stainless steel to eliminate rust and all tubing is triple coated forcorrosion protection. Designed for easy expansion, the house is available in standardwidths of 26', 30', or 36'in 5'lengths or custom-designed for your specific needs.Aquaculture greenhouses come complete with all hardware and easy to follow instructions.For more information contact Structures Unlimited, 2122 Whitfield Park Avenue, Sarasota,Florida 34243, 800-54 1 8129.
Oxygen Diffusers and Monitoring:
Oxygenation and the control ofdissolved oxygen levels are absolutely critical for all aquaculture systems, especiallyintensive production units.
One of the most convenient methods to dissolve oxygen into water is by useof diffusers; however, most diffusers are not very efficient. To resolve this problem,Dryden Aqua has developed and manufactures the ultimate micro bubble ceramic oxygendiffuser. The oxygen transfer efficiency of the diffuser will depend on the waterchemistry, depth, and flow conditions, but under typical aquaculture conditions, thediffuser will approach near 100% efficiency in the transfer of oxygen to the water. Intank and raceways systems, the Dryden Aqua DAD diffusers provide a simple, low cost, butefficient alternative to pressurized injection systems, with the advantage electricalpower supply to the equipment is needed.
To monitor, control and datalog oxygen levels, Dryden Aqua has developedthe AquaTraul multichannel oxygen monitoring system. There are two models; AquaTraul-Inand AquaTraul 8/8. The AquaTraul-In has 16 inputs for oxygen and 2 alarm relay outputs.The AquaTraul 8/8 has 8 inputs for oxygen, 8 control relay outputs and 2 alarm relayoutputs. The unit holds all of its own calibration and alarm set points for activation ofthe local relay contacts. The AquaTraul does not have any display, buttons, or externalswitches. All communication with the module is by an infra-red coms link or an RS485/232direct line connection to a PC. The PC will display the reading from all of the probes,and is used to calibrate and datalog the results. Effectively, the AquaTraul acts as astand-alone oxygen alarm system/controller, but when connected to a PC it becomesequivalent to a full blown sophisticated PC based monitoring system, but at a fraction ofthe cost of a PC system.
The AquaTraul represents a new generation of oxygen monitoring systemsdeveloped specifically for the aquaculture industry. More details and information on thesystem are available from our web site at www.DrydenAqua.com
Stainless Steel Axial-Flow Submersible Pumps:
Carry Manufacturing's stainless steel axial-flow submersible pumps canprovide a dependable solution for your fresh or salt water fish farming operation. Thecompact 1 to 10 horsepower pumps use Franklin Electric submersible motors that are waterlubricated . This means not only contamination-free operation, but a lot less time spenton maintenance. All pumps are available in either single or three phase models. Thecustomer can also specify voltage choice. The axial-flow design ensures smooth, low-head,high-volume pumping. Single pumps can range in capacity from 50 to 1,450 gallons perminute at 2 to 25 feet of total dynamic head and can be used in parallel combinations forgreater capacity.
The simplicity of the axial-flow design make CMI pumps a durable, longterm investment for use in raceways, tanks or ponds. They can also be the answer to yourpumping requirements for bio-filter operations, aeration and oxidation of standing water.
The corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction means an end to those"throw-away" pumps that are a constant drain on your operating budget. For moreinformation contact Carry Manufacturing at 1514 S. Knight Road, Munger, MI 48747,517-659-3500, Email: CarryMfg@aol.com
Odor Control:
Odor Control Co., offers a variety ofodor neutralizers in various forms to fit the user's specific needs and various packagesizes to accommodate any budget. Such versatility has given us the reputation for sellingsuperior products that are user friendly and affordable. We have a winning track recordfor neutralizing odors for the aquaculture industry. Specific applications include cookedshellfish odors emitted from stacks, fish waste collecting in tanks, fish oils, fishingboats and even offices situated too close to processing areas.
Odor Control Co., a U.S. manufacturer since 1979, uses the process of odorneutralization to help their customers combat odor problems. Through research, surveys anddatabases, the company has learned which neutralizers are best to reduce or eliminatenuisance odors that might be unappealing to your customers, neighbors or office personnel.Our product sheets lists the various methods and techniques to effectively dispense theodor neutralizers. For more information contact Odor Control Co., Inc. P.O. Box 5740,Scottsdale, A-Z 85261, 1-888-948-3956, Fax:602-45 1 -1010.
Corrosion-Free Bio-Filter Tanks:
Made from corrosion-free,fiberglass-reinforced polymer sheeting, bio-filter columns from Solar Components arecompletely maintenance-free and have no moving parts. They are ideal for ammonia removal,oxygenation, or degassing of closed loop recirculating aquaculture systems.
With 90% of visual light transmission, these unique tanks allow you toobserve activity within the tank. The specially formulated bio-medium is maintenance freeand a proven performer. It provides over 165 square feet of surface area per cubic foot.
Bio-filter tanks from Solar Components are the most affordable and naturalway to maintain water quality in your aquaculture operation. For more information contactSolar Components, 121 Valley Street, Manchester, NH 03103, 603-668-8186.
Preparation/Application of Fertilizers For Ponds
By: James W. Avault Jr., Professor ofFisheries, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
In our last issue of the MTAN we discussed basic types of pondfertilizers, inorganic and organic, and discussed advantages and disadvantages of each. Inthis issue we continue with preparation and application of fertilizers.
Inorganic fertilizers may be applied as a mixture of N-P-K or appliedindividually. When 100 lb of an 8-8-2 fertilizer are applied, 8 lb of both nitrogen andphosphorus are added as are 2 lb of potassium (For conversion to metric units, 2.205 lb =1 kg, and 1 hectare = approximately 2.5 acres). All three elements come together in thesame bag. However, the bag will contain more than just 18 lb (8 + 8 + 2 = 18) of desirednutrients. Fertilizers contain impurities that are not needed. Sodium nitrate, a source ofnitrogen, contains only 16% nitrogen. So to obtain 8 lb of nitrogen, use 50 lb of NaNO3,(8 - 16% = 50 lb needed).
Other impurities are also present in a fertilizer mixture. Once all threenutrients with impurities are added to the bag to obtain an 8-8-2 mixture, commercialdealers add enough inert material, such as agricultural limestone or brick dust, until atotal of 50 or 100 lb is reached. This allows for a uniform size bag. Therefore, for apond to receive 8 lb of nitrogen, 8 lb of phosphorus, and 2 lb of potassium per acre, youfertilize at a rate of 100 lb of 8-8-2 per acre. The fertilizer mixture contains 18 lb ofneeded elements, impurities from the fertilizer sources, and enough filler to bring thetotal to 100 lb.
Problem and Solution:
Fertilize a 10ac pond at a rate of 100 lb of 8-8-0, using, ammoniumnitrate and superphosphate as sources of fertilizers. Ammonium nitrate comes in 100 lbbags and superphosphate in 80 lb bags. Assume that three applications are made. Followingthis, continue phosphate fertilization only, at a rate of 100 lb of 0-8-0 per ac, forthree more applications.
Determine:
(1)How many bags (round off to nearest half bag) of each fertilizer areneeded for the first application? (2) How many bags of each fertilizer are needed for allthree applications? (3) How many bags of superphosphate are needed for three additionalapplications when ammonium nitrate is omitted?
The Solution Is:
(1) From the previous problem, 24 lb of ammonium nitrate are needed toobtain 100 lb of 8-0-0. Since 10 ac are to be fertilized, it will take 240 (10 ac x 24) lbof ammonium nitrate, and hence two and a half bags (240/100 = approximately 2.5).Similarly, 40 lb of superphosphate are needed for 100 lb of 0-8-0. Therefore 400 lb (10 acx 40) of superphosphate per application are needed, and hence five bags (400/80 = 5).Notice in this problem filler is not calculated. That is necessary only with commercialfertilizer mixtures. Even so, express the rate as 100 lb of 8-0-0 or 0-8-0. (2)With atotal of three applications, needed are: 7.5 bags of ammonium nitrate (3 x 2.5) and 15bags of superphosphate (3 x 5). (3)Three additional applications of 100 lb of 0-8-0 per acrequire 15 more bags (3 x 5) of superphosphate.
Application Of Fertilizer
Fertilizer applications should be tailored for each specific aquacultureoperation. In the United States, we usually do not rely on fertilization to increase fishcrops as much as they do in Europe and the Indo-Pacific Region. There are, of course,other instances where fertilization may be important, such as in weed control.Fertilization requirements of traditional agricultural crops usually involve a soilanalysis before planting. In some instances, a sample of foliage from the crop being growncan be analyzed to determine nutrients required with additional applications offertilizer.
Determination of fertilization requirements of pond water is far lessexact. Nutrient content of pond water and pond mud could be analyzed. The abundance ofphytoplankton and benthos can be determined quantitatively. However, these analyses taketime, and results may vary greatly and be difficult to evaluate. Most pond managersmeasure the density of the plankton bloom as an index for the need to fertilize pondwaters.
A plankton bloom dense enough to restrict view of a Secchi disk at between30 to 46 cm (12 to 18 in) is desirable for weed control and good fish production.Fertilize ponds frequently enough to maintain this bloom. The frequency will vary frompond to pond.
Formerly it was thought that fertilizer should be broadcasted over thepond surface from a boat. Also, fertilizer has been poured in a line along the water'sedge, but this much trouble is not necessary. Probably the easiest and best way is to putfertilizer on an underwater platform (Lawrence 1954). The platform should lie about 30 cm(1 ft) below the water surface. One platform will serve about 4 to 6 ha (10 to 15 ac) ofwater.
32 Advantages of Using Fertilizer Platforms Are:
(1) It takes less time and labor to fertilize ponds.
(2) Nutrients go into solution in top waters where photosynthetic activityis greatest.
(3) Nutrients are less apt to be tied up with pond muds.
(32) Nutrients go into solution over a longer period.
Some workers place fertilizer in porous bags. The bags are suspended inwater so that nutrients are released as fertilizer dissolves. Like fertilizer platforms,bags allow nutrients to enter the water column.
Liquid, inorganic fertilizer is even more efficient to use than granular,inorganic fertilizer. It is easier to apply, and less is required, so it is cheaper.Monthly application rates of a 10-34-0 fertilizer range from 5 to 19 liters/ha (0.5 to 2gal/ac).
AquaMats - Product Applications
By: William Hoyt, Meridian Applied, Technology Systems, 301-937-1240, Email:meridianam@aol.com
AquaMatsJ are currently in use in commercial, governmentand university facilities to enhance the growth and survival of a wide variety of aquaticspecies. Successful applications of the product include a wide variety of crustacean, fishand molluscan species.
AquaMatsJ scavenge soluble inorganic nutrients from the water throughperiphytic bacteriological metabolism. In recirculating systems and closed ponds withoutwater replacement, AquaMatsJ are capable of removing 80% of the phosphates, as well as 90% of thenitrates in 36 hours. Ammonia is also rapidly removed by anaerobic bacteriologicalnitrification processes. The removal of these nutrients allows the stocking of even higherdensities in ponds, tanks and raceways, while at the same time reducing the environmentalimpact of aquaculture operations.
Results Summary:
AquaMatsJ provide structure or cover, a limited amount of insect larval feed,and appear to significantly reduce the stress experienced by fish in hatchery rearing.
Dorsal fin erosion experienced by fish in tanks with AquaMatsJ is reduced by as much as50% in the first 50 days of growout.
AquaMatsJ are being used in natural rearing systems to Atrain@ fish to use and acquirecover to improve survival and success on release. (Typically, 50% of released hatcherytrout are lost in the first 48 hours due to predation and stress.)
The parr stage of Coho Salmon have been successfully reared with a 15%increase in survival (compared to controls) to smolting stage in commercial operations.Indications are that AquaMatsJ aid the transition to smolt stage by providing natural feed duringthe morphological changes while at the same time allowing a doubling of the populationdensities in holding ponds.
Fish prefer spacing (between structure such as rows of AquaMatsJ) that are slightly lessthan their own body length.
With raceway densities as high as 29,000 kg/ha, over 9 month periods,systems using AquaMatsJ (over 20-30% of the bottom area) experienced 12% higher survivalalong with an 11% increase in biomass over controls.
Average fish size in raceways where AquaMatsJ are used to provide coveris significantly more consistent than fish size in controls without cover.
Motion analysis of trout raised in the presence of AquaMatsJ shows that trout movementis dramatically reduced, decreasing caloric and feed demands.
Walleye Growth Using AquaMats
By: Rod McNeil, Meridian Applied, Technology Systems, 4041 Powder Mill Rd., Suite 510,Calverton, Maryland 20705, 301-937-1240, Email:meridianam@aol.com
The focus of this projectwas the mass culture of walleye. The highly piscivorous nature of the species with itsstrong morphological transitions to benthic feeding and photoaversion make it aparticularly challenging species to rear on a large scale. A series of thirteen ponds witha surface area of 0.5 acre and a volume of 500,000 gallons each were utilized to evaluatea range of varying AquaMatJ densities per pond,spacing between rows as well as providing four control ponds.
Three mat densities at two different spacings were evaluated to provide arange of area ratios between the mat structure and the surface area of the ponds. Eachpond had 1,635 square meters of bottom area, including the sloped sides.
Ponds were filled with water 10 days prior to planting of larval fry.Water supply was diverted from the Yellowstone River and water temperature at the time ofthe plant was 10.4C. Continuous monitoring was provided for zooplankton, phytoplankton,Secchi disk, pH, temperature, nitrate and phosphate every three days for the first monthand at weekly intervals during the entire growout. Dissolved oxygen was monitored 5 timesdaily, twice a week during the first fifty-two days and weekly thereafter. BOD=s and respiratory quotientswere determined weekly.
Of the eggs transferred, 66 million were successfully hatched and two dayspost hatch, 5 million were transferred to the outdoor rearing ponds. Planting density onthe ponds was 100,000 per acre.
The mats prevented filamentous blooms during Phase 1 growth, but seemedonly to delay the onset of blooms that did take place in Phase 2 growth. The algal bloomsdied off quickly and did not grow back during the 1997 season.
As compared with the 1994-1996 average results in the Phase 1 growthperiod, survival was 42.5% higher and average weight was 44% greater in 1997 on ponds with270 to 540 sq.m of AquaMatsJ per hectare. This created a 240% higher biomass productivity with a47% reduction in the use of fertilizers. A ranking order test showed that within the 1997data, fertilizer application alterations were the most influential variable.
In Phase 2 growth for 1997 as compared with the three year prior average,survival was 20% higher and fish weight was 36% higher. This created a 236% higher biomassproductivity with a 78% overall reduction in fertilizers for both Phase 1 and 2 growth in1997.
Performance of the ponds with 1,120 sq.m of AquaMatsJ per hectare wassignificantly poorer due in part to increased predation by Odonata larvae and oxygensupersaturation. The emergent nature of the mats, when so many were used in a pond offixed depth, significantly increased the number of predacious insect larvae on the mats.
After Aaging@ for approximately 35 days (520 degree days), the mats showed asignificant capacity to absorb both nitrates and phosphates added to the system. Over 90%of the available soluble nitrates were absorbed in less than 24 hours. Approximately 75%of phosphate additions were absorbed in less than 12 hours. Given the fact that these werestatic (no-flow) systems, this demonstrates a significant potential for nutrientscavenging with short contact times once appropriate biotic communities are established.
The ability of all ponds containing AquaMatsJ to control Cyzicus andeliminate blue-green blooms significantly increased the ease of operations and eliminatedthe possibility of toxic dieoff in hatchery operations. The ability of the mats to delayand reduce the scale of filamentous algal growth eliminated the need for herbicide controland reduced the total amount of fertilizer necessary for operations by over 75%. At thesame time, fish stocking densities could have been increased a further 250% with thezooplankton populations produced on ponds with 24 to 57 AquaMatsJ per hectare.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
During the first 21 days after the ponds were filled, there were nosignificant differences in DO levels between the ponds with and without mats. DO showed atypical diurnal load variation, reaching its minimum just after dawn. As the biomass ofalgal growth on the mats increased, the DO levels increased in ponds with mats untilfinally, after seven weeks, ponds with 540 sq.m or more of AquaMats per hectare were atsaturation during all daylight hours after 10:00 a.m. Typical daylight DO levels at noonin ponds with any mats reached 10.0+ mg/liter at water temperatures in the 21-25 C range.
Obviously, with the biomass on the AquaMatsJ, the respiratory demandincreased at night, but even in the worst case (1,120 sq.m of AquaMats/ha.), the DOremained 20% higher than the control ponds during the dark cycle. On two occasions, duringweek 6 and week 11 during growout, DO levels became dangerously low (<2.0 mg/liter) incontrol ponds due to high temperatures (25+ C) and stagnation. The strong, constantprevailing winds aided in preventing more problems in the control ponds. DO levels neverdropped below 4.2 mg/L for any pond with AquaMatsJ, even during stagnation periods.
Fertilizer (chopped alfalfa) was added to the system during the first 40days PF and additions were halted thereafter as the zooplankton food supply was more thanadequate and the degradation rate of the alfalfa produced a 14-21 day lag in theavailability of nutrients. Since the only energy inputs to the system were the addition offish, photosynthetic activity, and the fertilizer, it is assumed that one or all of thesefactors contributed to the steady rise in the water pH from 6.9 initially to 9.2 onehundred days later.
Fertilizer Additions
As noted in the previous section, chopped alfalfa was used as the onlynitrate fertilizer source material and it was added weekly, beginning with the filling ofthe first ponds. Initial charge rates were 337 kgs/hectare and the applied load was 225kgs/hectare each weekly thereafter. After four charges of material to each pond ( a totalof 205 kgs per 0.2 hectares) additions were discontinued as nitrate values began risingrapidly at 40 days PF. The prolonged dissolution time for extraction of nitrate from thealfalfa made the control of nitrate levels difficult to predict, particularly since theextraction rate was temperature dependent.
The data strongly suggest that at least 30 days are necessary to establishan active biofilm on the AquaMatsJ capable of metabolizing nitrate. The ability of the mat systems totie up nitrates was highly significant with a free dependency association as compared withthe controls at p=<.001 with a 95% confidence limit. Once the appropriate bioticcommunity was established on the mats, the nitrate levels relative to the control pondsshowed a 90% decrease in soluble nitrate, even with only 270 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. present.
In a typical first stage growing season, 386 kilos of alfalfa would havebeen used in each 0.2 hectare pond. This 47% reduction in fertilizer use during firststage growout represented a significant cost reduction for disposables and decreased thecost of operations at the hatchery by 12% (exclusive of salaries) during the first 63 daysof seasonal operation.
Once alfalfa additions were halted 28 days PP, it was decided to regulatephosphorus with the addition of phosphoric acid. While it was initially unclear how muchthis might affect pH, the small quantities required seemed to pose little risk of pHshock. Based on the work of Smith, McNeil and Ellis, it was decided to maintain totalphosphorus at a ratio of 1:40 relative to total nitrate. Since the complexation time forphosphorus seems much faster in ponds than that for nitrate, additions were only madeweekly, forty-eight hours after total nitrate determination. Since the nitrate levelscontinued to climb even after the alfalfa additions ceased, the amount of phosphoric acidadded weekly rose over the period from 34 PP to 52 PP.
Phosphate
During Phase 2 growth, the only source of phosphate input to the systemwas weekly phosphoric acid additions. The amount to be added was determined by measuringnitrate and regulating phosphate at 2.5% of nitrate levels. This system seemed to workwell at controlling filamentous algal growth. The work of Ellis had shown that a fixedratio of nitrate/phosphate will activate rapid algal growth only when sufficient iron ispresent. While extensive experiments were not conducted, a ratio of at least 0.5 to oneiron/phosphate was found to be necessary to initiate growth.
Temperature Observations
The water temperature in the area surrounding and within the matsfilamentous structure was noted to be 5-7 C above that of the surrounding water. Thelarval fish sought out these areas and remained there most of the time during the first400 degree days while ambient pond temperatures were in the 10-15 C range. Zooplanktonconcentrations were also found to be highest in these high thermal concentration areas. Itis not known whether fish were attracted due to the greater food resource, the higherwater temperatures or a combination of the two phenomenon.
Zooplankton
It was noted that the concentrations of zooplankton were substantiallyhigher in the immediate vicinity of the mats. Samples taken at 49 PF (Phase 1) showedpopulations within 0.5 meters of the mats to be 8,600 to 12,770 per liter for all matsindependent of the number of AquaMatsJ or their spacing. Samples from the area around the mats typicallyshowed five times the zooplankton density of the open water areas only 3-4 meters away.This may explain why the juvenile larvae congregated around and in the mat structureduring the first 28 days post-plant.
The concentrations of zooplankton continued to be substantially higher inthe immediate vicinity of the mats in Phase 2. Samples taken at 98 PF showed populationswithin 0.5 meters of the mats to be 4,600 to 5,150 per liter for all mats independent ofthe number of mats or their spacing. At the time of harvest, the average populationdensities in the pond with mats was double that found in the control ponds. This isconsiderably lower than the ratio experienced in Phase 1, but is apparently related togeneral population density after refilling. Speciation distribution was much narrowerafter refilling. Projections of the potential stocking capacity based on the residual Daphniapopulation at the time of harvest would indicate that stocking densities in Phase 2 ashigh as 60,000 per hectare would have been practicable.
Walleye predation behavior was highly selective with the first genus ofzooplankton to be harvested being Cyclops. Examination of stomach contents eachweek for weeks 2 through 5 showed a remarkable predominance of zooplankton having anorange-red coloration with a specral maxima at 472 nm. As the fish reach roughly 0.25grams in weight, their grazing behavior became less specific and Daphnia pulexpopulations were most affected in weeks 6 thru harvest.
At the fifth week, total zooplankton populations began to fall off in thefour control ponds, but populations actually continued to grow in all ponds with AquaMatsJ clear through to harvest.At the time of harvest, the average zooplankton populations in the ponds with AquaMatsJ was 6.4 times that foundin the control ponds. Projections of the potential stocking capacity based on the residualDaphnia population at the time of harvest would indicate that stocking densities as highas 625,000 per hectare would have been practicable based exclusively on food resourceduring the first 52 days post-plant.
Control of AProblem@ Organisms on the Ponds
An interesting observation was that the nuisance organism Cyzicusmorsie (the clam shrimp) was virtually absent from all of the tanks having AquaMatsJ present. It is possiblethat the rapid metabolism of trace nutrients created by the increased surface area fromthe mats tied up some nutrient essential to the species.
The absence of this organism makes finfish harvest much simpler in thatprimary drainage screens don=t become clogged during drawdown and require less observationalmaintenance.
Another matter of prime concern is the prevention of filmentous algalgrowth to an extent where fish may become entrapped at the time of harvest. During thefirst stage growout, the total filamentous algal growth was markedly different betweentanks that had mats and those that did not. Filamentous growth of the genus Oscillatoriaand Spirogyra were the predominant genus, constituting 70+% of the photosyntheticbiomass in the control ponds. The lack of filamentous growth in ponds with AquaMatsJ eliminated the use ofaquazine or copper sulfate in the treatment of the water prior to fish harvest.
All control ponds experienced blue-green blooms of Aphanizomenon,but none of these ponds experienced any toxic die-off. No blue-green blooms were noted inany pond using AquaMatsJ. It is hypothesized that the rapid assimilation of nutrients by theAquaMatsJeliminated the growth potential for these organisms.
Fish Survival and Biomass Production
The key parameters to the hatchery are the number of fish which survive tobe planted and the cost per fish. An Anova analysis shows that there is nostatistically significant difference in yield for the 0, 270 and 540 sq.m of AquaMat/ha.treatments within 1997. The difference in survival and yield between 1,120 sq.mAquaMat/ha. treatments and all other treatments was highly significant (p=<.001).
The fish grown on 540 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. average 18% larger than thecontrols with a 14.8% increase in survival. The fish grown on 270 sq.m of AquaMats/ha.average 14.4% larger than the controls with a 12.1% increase in survival. In brief, forPhase 1 growout, there is no statistically significant difference in productivity betweenthe controls and 270 or 540 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. treatments within 1997.
The inter-year analysis gives significantly different results. The changein yield, survival and productivity are all highly significant and favorable to the 1997results. Independent of the 1,120 sq.m of AquaMat/ha. pond results, the average weight was40% greater and the survival 42.5% higher in 1997. These results were significant at thep=<.001 level. This resulted in a 240% increase in biomass productivity 1997.
The highly significant reduction in survival on 1,120 sq.m of AquaMatsponds is complex. Due to the number of AquaMatsJ in the pond, roughly half of the mats were emergent and supported alarge Odonates population. Underwater observation of the mats at 5-8 weeks postfill showed large numbers of larvae preying on fish fry. On only one side of one mat, itwas possible to observe 1-2 fish captured in the period of an hour. As this behavior wasnever observed in 100 hours of observation in ponds without emergent mats, it would seemprudent to prevent the mats from becoming emergent by either manipulating pond depth ortrimming the mats to prevent surface exposure. As water temperatures warmed and theperiphytic algal community became better established, afternoon diurnal increases inoxygen tension produced supersaturation. While this effect occurred occasionally in pondswith 540 sq.m of AquaMats/ha, it was a daily occurrence in the 1,120 sq.m of AquaMats/ha.ponds. The average 2:00 PM delta p for oxygen was 115 mm or 156% saturation for the periodfrom 42 days PF. This is very close to levels known to cause mortality in continuousbioassay exposure studies and may account for some of the mortality.
Phase 2 Growout for Walleye
The period of Phase 2 growout varied between 70 and 81 days, dependent onharvest date. All ponds were stocked with 24,700 fish/hectare for Phase 2 growout. At the beginning of Phase 2, pH levels were 9.17. Fertilizer additions during Phase 2 wereall inorganic and tended to reduce the pH due to the high hydronium ion content of thephosphoric acid. Phosphate additions were made to bring the weekly ratio ofnitrate/phosphate to 40:1. During the 9 weeks, only five additions were made as the ratiosometimes remained constant for as long as three weeks at a time.
In a typical second Phase 2 season, 386 kilos of alfalfa would have beenused in each 0.2 hectare pond. Since none was used and the fertilizer use was decreased47% during stage one growth, the overall reduction in alfalfa use for the growing seasonwas 78%. This represented a significant cost reduction for disposables and decreased thecost of operations at the hatchery by 23% (exclusive of salaries) during the full growingseason.
To create a comparison data base, the Miles City Hatchery was comparedwith its own performance over the past three years. Alfalfa has been used for the pastfive years and Aquazine had been used every year except 1997 to control algal blooms.
An Anova analysis (Phase 2) shows that there is a statisticallysignificant difference in yield for the 270 and 540 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. treatments ascompared with the controls within 1997. The difference in survival and yield between 1,120sq.m of AquaMats/ha. treatments and all other treatments was highly significant(p=<.001).
The fish grown on 270 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. ponds were on average 36%larger than the controls with a 20.0% increase in survival. The fish grown on 540 sq.m ofAquaMats/ha. averaged 32% larger than the controls with a 25% increase in survival. Inbrief, there were statistically significant differences (p=<.001) in productivitybetween the controls and 270 or 540 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. treatments within 1997.
The inter-year analysis gives even more significant results. The change inyield, survival and productivity are all highly significant (p=<.001) and favorable tothe 1997 results. Independent of the 1,120 sq.m of AquaMats/ha. results, the averageweight was 37% greater and the survival 51.8% higher in 1997. These results weresignificant at the p=<.001 level. This resulted in a 239% increase in Phase 2 biomassproductivity in 1997.
Funding Sources For Tribal Hatcheries
Are you looking for funding sources to construct additions toyour hatchery facility? Perhaps you have a portion of the capital needed to remodel youfacility and only require a small grant to finalize a specific project. The MTAN had thepleasure of a recent phone call with Larry Wawronowicz (Fish and Game Director Lac duFlambeau Reservation) regarding this topic. Larry suggested you contact the followingthree agencies:
* Administration for Native Americans (ANA), 202-690-7776, www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/ana/
* Indian Community Development Block Grants (ICDBG), 800-735-3239, www.latech.edu/tech/rural/grants/housing/house03.html
* Economic Development Administration (EDA), 312-353-7148
The MTAN would also suggest that youcall the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Federal Aid Office, Fort Snelling, MN(612-713-5132) to inquire about AState@ grant programs that may be available.
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| Product and company names mentioned in this publication are for informational purposes only. It does not imply endorsement by the MTAN or the U.S. Government. |
