Nanobubbles enhance nitrification in RAS
This study evaluated nanobubble technology in marine RAS rearing juvenile Malabar red snapper, barramundi, and hybrid tilapia over 42 days. Growth, survival, and FCR showed no significant differences between nanobubble enriched (RASN) and control systems (RASC), likely due to low stocking density and high water exchange. Air nanobubbles did not elevate DO but reduced wall biofilm. Flow cytometry revealed 30 to100 fold higher viable bacterial counts than plate counts, with RASN showing greater abundance of nitrifiers (e.g., Nitrospira, Marinobacter) and lower nitrite. Results suggest potential microbial benefits of nanobubbles; further research at higher densities and longer durations is warranted.