A Comparative Analysis of Biofloc-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Various Sources

Biofloc technology is an innovative approach in aquaculture and wastewater treatment that leverages the flocculating abilities of microbial communities to improve water quality and enhance productivity. This study aimed to isolate and characterize biofloc-producing bacteria from shrimp pond environments in Visakhapatnam. Four distinct shrimp pond locations were selected, and water samples were incubated in an Imhoff cone to promote biofloc formation under laboratory conditions. Bacterial strains were isolated and identified based on their biochemical profiles and biofloc production capabilities. The results showed that biofloc production began at 48 h, and BMV-2, KBF-111, KDK-1, and BGP-6 reached 30 ml/L at 72 h. Biochemical tests and molecular analysis showed a high similarity to Klebsiella pneumonia. This study underscores the potential of these bacterial strains for aquaculture treatment, highlighting their optimal biofloc production times and diverse metabolic capabilities. These findings support the application of biofloc technology in sustainable aquaculture practices and environmental management.