Aquaculture involves a wide range of heterotrophic organisms, which rely entirely on external food sources for their growth and development. While industrialized aquaculture systems often depend on artificial feed, natural food remains the primary and essential source of nutrition in many aquaculture practices. In particular, during seedling production, large water surface culture, or when filter-feeding species are the main target, the timely and adequate supply of natural food is crucial. If these natural foods meet the nutritional and energy needs of aquatic organisms, it ensures the production of high-quality and high-yield aquaculture products.
Natural food sources in aquatic environments include phytoplankton, aquatic plants, zooplankton, bacteria, and organic debris. Among these, phytoplankton and higher aquatic plants act as primary producers, using sunlight for photosynthesis. Their productivity is known as primary production. Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and other inorganic salts are essential for this process. Fertilized waters contain abundant nutrients that stimulate the rapid growth of phytoplankton under sunlight. However, in nutrient-poor waters, even with sufficient light, phytoplankton cannot thrive effectively.
The basic materials needed for the growth and reproduction of aquatic animals come from dissolved inorganic substances in the water. These animals obtain their nutrition by consuming natural food organisms. As a result, their growth is closely linked to the availability of inorganic salts. Every year, large quantities of aquatic products are harvested, removing key nutrients from the water. If these nutrients are not replenished, it leads to imbalances, reducing the overall productivity of the ecosystem. Over time, the water’s ability to support life diminishes, affecting both food organisms and the entire aquaculture system.
To maintain a healthy and productive aquatic environment, fertilization is necessary. It helps increase the levels of essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, promoting the growth of phytoplankton and, in turn, supporting the development of zooplankton and other food sources. This process enhances the overall productivity of the water body.
Here is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of fertilization:
**Schematic Diagram of Fertilization (Including Material Circulation and Energy Flow)**
A. Represents some organic matter in organic fertilizers.
B. Indicates fish being harvested for sale.
C. Shows the removal of nutrients when fish are taken out of the system.
In summary, the main purposes of fertilization are:
1. To promote the growth of phytoplankton, providing a rich source of natural food for farmed fish and increasing fish yields.
2. To enrich the water with organic debris, which can be directly consumed by aquatic organisms.
Fertilization plays a critical role in maintaining the balance and productivity of aquaculture systems, ensuring sustainable and efficient production.
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