Optimizing nutrient utilization efficiency in aquaculture ponds: a modelling approach

The demand for fish as animal protein is increasing. Today, about 80% of the global finfish and crustacean aquaculture production are raised in ponds. However, the relation between fish nutrition and pond functioning is still poorly understood, making pond production difficult to predict and risky for farmers. This project aims to investigate, monitor, and predict the nutrient dynamics in Nile tilapia aquaculture ponds in Indonesia. Dynamic modelling will be used to understand and optimize the nutrient use efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorous, and carbon and to define safe limits for production of tilapia in ponds which finally will help to increase farm income and resilience.