Nitrogen and phosphorus flux in wastewater from three productive stages in a hyperintensive tilapia culture

In this research, effect of productive stages in nitrogen and phosphorus excretion in wastewater from hyperintensive tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) culture was evaluated. Fish were cultivated considering three development stages (fingerling of 1.79 g, juvenile of 36.13 g, and adult of 72.96 g). Nitrite, nitrate, ammonium, and phosphorus concentration were determined in order to know the amount of nutrients excreted per productive stage of the fish at a high stocking density. Biometric data were recorded during the experiment with the purpose of determining the growth behavior of fish, as well as the measurement of the aerobic metabolism. Results showed that survival, growth, and health of fish are not affected by hyperdensity of culture; as well, combined catabolism of proteins and lipids was presented as substrates for energy with value for O:N ratio ranging between 20 and 60. In addition, higher concentration in excretion of nitrogen compounds and phosphorus per gram of fish was recorded in wastewater from a hyperintensive culture in fingerlings than in juveniles and adults. These results suggest the use of this wastewater in the early stages of fish growth, aiming to enhance sustainable systems with maximum use of the resources, such as aquaponics systems. HIGHLIGHTS The effect of productive stages in NP excretion in wastewater from hyperintensive tilapia culture are evaluated.; Survival, growth and health is not affected by hyperdensity of culture.; Concentration in NP excretion per gram of fish is higher in fingerlings.; It is suggested the use of aquicultural wastewater in the early productive stages for the use in sustainable systems such as aquaponics systems.;