Analysis of microbial abundance in shrimp biofloc system
Biofloc technology in shrimp farming fosters a pond microbial ecosystem, reduces water consumption, and bolsters yields. An aquaculture automation system, which controls water quality and aeration, is used for biofloc shrimp farming. Therefore, we investigated the use of a sensor-based automation system in biofloc shrimp farming and compared it with manual practices. The automated system, which controlled the water quality and aeration, demonstrated improved efficiency, precision, and sustainability. A 60-day trial in a 12, 000 L pond showed that the automated method enhanced shrimp growth, feed efficiency, protein efficiency, bacterial populations, and nutritional composition. The automated trial exhibited significant improvements in the specific growth rate (28.66) and feed conversion ratio (1.1). Furthermore, the experimental pond showed better survival rates than the control trial. It also reduced ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels in water. The sensors tracked the status of the solenoid valves and aerator, adjusting their operation based on factors such as water conditions and shrimp growth requirements. However, the sensor signals can be interrupted by a highly viscous environment. The pH and dissolved oxygen sensors were found to be particularly important for effective operation of the biofloc system. Microbial community analysis of the shrimp biofloc samples identified three dominant bacterial phyla: Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria. Among the 23 detected bacterial genera, Acinetobacter, Tissierella, and Pseudomonas were the most abundant genera. The study concluded that automation significantly improves shrimp farming efficiency and productivity.