Survivability and growth performance of kissing gourami (Helostoma temminckii) under bottle aquaponic system with artificial feed

Abstract

This study explores the synergistic potential of Bottle Aquaponics, an integrated aquaculture-hydroponics system, in the context of sustainable food production. Focused on Helostoma temminckii (Kissing gourami), the research investigates the survivability and growth performance of fish under two conditions: with the inclusion of recovery food or aquaponics and without. Over a 32-day culture period, the fish exhibited consistent growth in both scenarios, with survival rates remaining at 100%. Fishes reared with the inclusion of recovery food or aquaponics (4.2 gm) showed a higher weight gain at the end of the culture period as compared to without recovery food or Aquaponics (3.9 gm). The inclusion of recovery food or aquaponics demonstrated slightly lower Feed Conversion Ratios (FCR), suggesting potential improvements in feed efficiency. Physico-chemical analyses of water revealed that the presence of recovery food or aquaponics contributed to more stable conditions, including lower ammonia levels. In contrast, conditions without recovery food or aquaponics showed higher variability in ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate concentrations. The study emphasizes the interconnected dynamics between fish growth and water quality, highlighting the potential benefits of recovery food and aquaponics in aquaculture practices. The findings underscore the potential of Bottle Aquaponics as a semi-urban farming method with low initial costs, minimal water exchange requirements, and a capacity for high-density yield. The study concludes that aquaponics, with careful management, stands as a promising solution to global food challenges, offering a novel and resourceful method for sustainable agriculture.