AQUACULTURAL SYSTEM MANAGEMENT TOOL II: ANALYTICAL AND MANAGERIAL CAPABILITY

Abstract

One of the major objectives for developing ecosystem models is their application as tools of analysis for complex systems which otherwise would be difficult to analyze using conventional tools such as field experimentation and inventory monitoring. In view of this, the AQUASMAT model, which was developed based on existing ecosystem models theories and coded using the C-sharp language, was used to conduct a modeling study on a static concrete fish tank, to demonstrate its managerial and analytical capabilities. The input variables for model execution were site specific parameters, fish/feed parameters, water quality parameters and management options from selected fish farm in Nigeria. The model simulation was for concrete tanks with surface area of 1 m² and 50 m² respectively, run for a period of 151 using various management techniques and varied feeding rates. Series of simulations were used to evaluate the ability of the model to predict the effects of different feed regimes, management intensities, and budgetary requirements (solely based on cost of fish and feed), and interaction of parameters over a range of fish production levels. The model was used to gain insight into the dynamics and interactions of major water quality parameters with respect to feed loading and fish growth in a 1m³ fish tank. The result of the simulation was compared to a farmer’s production output and best management practices which provide the user (farmer) with optimal feeding techniques and practices with lower FCR within recommended range. The results of the water parameters relationships and interaction with respect to feed loading and fish growth were used to gain insight in sizing biofilter for aquaponics systems.