Publication Date

2015-12-16

Availability

Open access

Embargo Period

2015-12-16

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Marine Affairs and Policy (Marine)

Date of Defense

2015-09-23

First Committee Member

Daniel D. Benetti

Second Committee Member

Maria L. Estevanez

Third Committee Member

German E. Merino

Abstract

The biological and technological feasibility of using the agarophyte Gracilaria tikvahiae as a biofilter for the bioremediation of nitrogenous effluents resulting from juvenile cobia culture was examined. Using a thorough literature review of the most relevant published research, optimal parameters are identified and discussed within the context of juvenile cobia culture, while factors maximizing biofiltration and growth of Gracilaria within a biofilter system are outlined. The study attempts to match cobia nitrogen excretion rates with rates of algal nutrient uptake to size the initial biomass of algae needed in a filter for the culture of 10,000 juvenile (<30g) cobia. The culture of 10,000 juvenile cobia, 28-70 days post hatch (DPH), produces a maximum of roughly 300g of nitrogen daily which in turn can support roughly 12-27kg of algae (wet weight) per day, depending on uptake rate. The supportable algae biomass is then used to size the initial stocking density of the algae filter. Optimal system components are identified and management considerations are discussed with respect to optimizing growth as a means to maximize biofiltration and nutrient extraction capacity over time.

Keywords

Algae Biofilters; Bioremediation; Aquaculture; Integrated Aquaculture; Neal Asthana; macroalgae; Effluent Bioremediation

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