Evaluating Critical Water Quality Parameters for Sustainable Brackishwater Aquaculture in Pohuwato Regency, Indonesia

Brackishwater aquaculture plays a vital role in supporting food security, creating employment opportunities, and improving the welfare of coastal communities. This study aimed to monitor the water quality of brackishwater ponds in Pohuwato Regency based on key physicochemical parameters to assess their suitability for sustainable aquaculture. The study was conducted at 18 active pond sites located in the Wanggarasi and Randangan districts. Parameters measured in situ included water temperature, turbidity, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and total dissolved solids (TDS), while nitrate and total phosphate concentrations were analyzed ex situ in the laboratory. The water quality data were descriptively analyzed by comparing the observed values of temperature, turbidity, salinity, DO, pH, TDS, nitrate, and total phosphate. Each parameter was compared to the optimal range values for brackishwater aquaculture species. The results showed that most parameters—such as DO, turbidity, nitrate, and phosphate—were within or near the optimal range. However, several parameters, including elevated temperatures (30.33–33.37°C), high pH (up to 9.11), and salinity levels (28.3–34.77ppt), deviated from optimal conditions and could affect aquaculture performance. In brackishwater aquaculture, parameters such as salinity, pH, and DO are critical for the physiological performance of shrimp and milkfish, the dominant cultured species in tropical coastal areas. The study underscores the need for strategic environmental management, particularly in regulating temperature, pH, salinity, and TDS. Incorporating data-driven approaches and innovations—such as Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)—may enhance sustainability by optimizing nutrient cycling and reducing the risk of water quality deterioration. Effective water quality management will support optimal growth, reduce physiological stress, and minimize disease risks in cultured organisms, thereby increasing production and improving the livelihoods of local communities in Pohuwato Regency.