Maintaining Pond Water Quality with Biochar, The Secret Behind Healthy Shrimp

The shrimp farming industry is undergoing a major transformation. Amid growing market demand, farmers face a tough challenge: how to produce high-quality shrimp without harming the environment or wasting water?

Traditionally, maintaining water quality in shrimp ponds requires frequent water exchange. However, this method is far from environmentally friendly. It not only consumes large amounts of water but also risks polluting surrounding water bodies. This is where technologies like biofloc and biochar come in as future-ready solutions.

Understanding the Biofloc System: The Balancer of Pond Water Quality

Biofloc systems are gaining popularity due to their ability to process organic waste directly within the pond. In this system, bacteria and organic particles interact to form "flocs"—small clumps that break down ammonia (NH₄⁺), nitrite (NO₂⁻), and other harmful substances. Interestingly, these flocs can also serve as an additional food source for shrimp!

However, biofloc systems come with their own set of challenges. Without proper control, excessive biofloc concentration can lead to oxygen depletion, pH drops, and toxic compound buildup. This is where carbon sources play a vital role—commonly in the form of molasses (a by-product of sugarcane). But there is a smarter and more eco-friendly alternative: biochar.

Biochar: The Eco-Friendly Black Powder That Boosts Shrimp Farming

Biochar is a carbon-rich material produced by burning agricultural waste (such as rice straw or husks) in the absence of oxygen. The result is a black, porous powder with multiple benefits:

• Rich in carbon

• Insoluble in water

• Capable of absorbing toxic compounds

• Provides an ideal surface for beneficial bacteria to grow

These properties make biochar an exciting addition to biofloc-based shrimp ponds.

Biochar vs Molasses: Which Is Better?

An eight-week trial involving Penaeus vannamei shrimp compared ponds using molasses with those using biochar. The results were eye-opening:

• Biochar suppressed the growth of pathogenic bacteria like Vibrio, a common cause of shrimp disease.

• The microbial community in the biofloc was more diverse and stable with biochar.

• The number of ammonia and nitrite oxidizing bacteria (nitrifiers) was higher in biochar-treated ponds.

• Ammonia (NH₄⁺) and nitrite (NO₂⁻) levels were lower and better controlled in biochar ponds.

• Nitrate (NO₃⁻), the final and safe by-product of nitrification, was higher—indicating optimal nitrogen conversion.

• Shrimp in biochar-enhanced systems showed better growth and harvest results.

Why Does This Matter?

Shrimp are highly sensitive to water quality changes. Even slight increases in ammonia or nitrite levels can negatively impact growth—or worse, lead to mass mortality. By using biochar:

• Pond water remains more stable and healthier.

• Water usage becomes more efficient—no need for frequent water replacement.

• Shrimp grow better with reduced disease risk.

• Surrounding ecosystems stay protected due to minimal waste discharge.

A Greener, More Sustainable Future for Shrimp Farming

Biochar isn’t just another pond additive—it’s an eco-smart solution that could revolutionize shrimp aquaculture. By transforming agricultural waste into a valuable resource, biochar helps reduce organic waste while preserving aquatic environments.

For shrimp farmers looking to maintain water quality without overusing water or chemicals, biochar presents a long-term, sustainable investment—and perhaps the key to a healthier, more resilient shrimp farming industry.

Discover more about SAWA’s innovative biochar production and its impact on sustainable farming.

Explore SAWA Biochar