Optimization of physical-chemical water parameters to improve Nile tilapia production performance

The farming of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) has shown continuous growth, highlighting the need to optimize production systems to enhance efficiency and sustainability. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different ionic compositions of water in recirculating systems for tilapia farming. The experiment was conducted at the Aquaculture Laboratory of the Federal University of Grande Dourados (UFGD), in the municipality of Dourados, MS, Brazil, over 51 days, using four water sources with distinct compositions. Parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and temperature were monitored. The results indicated that the treatment with the lowest electrical conductivity (T3: 1562 µS/cm) exhibited the best performance in terms of dissolved oxygen (3.93 mg/L) and pH (6.68), providing more stable and favorable conditions for farming. It was observed that higher levels of electrical conductivity and acidic pH in the other treatments compromised water quality stability and productive performance. It is concluded that adjustments in ionic balance are essential to improve recirculation conditions, promoting biosecurity and sustainability in tilapia farming. This study provides practical guidelines for water management, fostering the efficient use of natural resources and environmental preservation, which are fundamental aspects for the sustainable expansion of aquaculture.