With reference to the role of biofilters in Recirculating Aquaculture System, consider the following statements:
- Biofilters provide waste treatment by removing uneaten fish feed.
- Biofilters convert ammonia present in fish waste to nitrate.
- Biofilters increase phosphorus as nutrient for fish in water.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct
- Biofilters are systems that use microorganisms attached to an inorganic or organic medium as a carrier. These microorganisms can degrade various compounds. The main purpose of biofilters is to remove pollutants from a fluid stream by breaking them down. Biofilters are crucial for removing organic waste, including uneaten feed, from the water in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). This helps maintain water quality.
Statement 2 is correct
- One of the primary functions of biofilters is to convert toxic ammonia (produced from fish waste) into less harmful nitrate.
Statement 3 is incorrect
- Biofilters constructed based on identified “ideal specifications” can consistently eliminate significant amounts of nutrients, removing up to 70% of nitrogen and 85% of phosphorus. Additionally, these biofilters prove highly effective in clearing suspended solids.
