Effect of Zeolite on Aquaculture Water Quality, Fish and Microalgae Growth

The study examined the effects of different zeolite doses on water quality parameters, fish growth performance, algae growth, and economic return from concrete ponds cultured with mono-sex male tilapia. Zeolite was used at varying doses: T1 (2.5kg/ m³), T2 (5kg/ m³), T3 (7.5kg/ m³), T4 (10kg/ m³), along with a control (Cont.: without zeolite). The results showed significant differences between the treatment groups and the control for both water quality parameters. Tilapia growth was found to be within optimal limits. The mean dissolved oxygen levels in T3 and T4 were most suitable for tilapia growth and supporting high fish production. pH levels were generally within the ideal range for tilapia. Water clarity was significantly higher in T4 compared to the control, and the addition of zeolite reduced ammonia levels while enhancing microalgae cultivation. Additionally, zeolite decreased both nitrate and nitrite levels in the water. Phosphorus removal by zeolite increased with rising pH. Zeolite significantly affected all growth indices, except the survival rate (SR) in T1. The effect of zeolite on growth and algal biomass was most pronounced in T3. The addition of zeolite significantly improved fish growth performance. While the highest weight gain (WG), average daily weight gain (ADWG), specific growth rate (SGR), and condition factor (CF) values were recorded in T4, the highest net profit percentage was achieved with T3. Based on these results, the study suggests that zeolites can enhance water quality, algal growth, fish productivity, and economic return from fish farming.