Alkalinity and Hardness Variation in Ground Waters of East Godavari District due to Aquaculture

Abstract

In aquaculture systems alkalinity leads to stable pH, lower toxicity of ammonia and carbon dioxide and healthy biofilter operations. High concentrations of hardness block the toxic effects of copper and zinc. For waters where alkalinity is high and calcium is low, photosynthesis may increase the pH to levels that are toxic to fish. Excess alkalinity in an ecosystem can reduce that ecosystem’s ability to sustain life. Ground water contamination with salt water due to aquaculture and thereby changes in alkalinity, hardness and other parameters are discussed.