The Cycle of Ammonia (NH3)

Ammonia Sources

1. Fish waste: Fish waste is the primary source of ammonia in aquaculture. Fish waste contains nitrogen that can be broken down into ammonia.

2. Uneaten feed: Uneaten feed that is not consumed by fish can also become a source of ammonia. Uneaten feed can be broken down by bacteria into ammonia.

Ammonia Cycle Process

1. Ammonification: Ammonia (NH3) is produced from fish waste and uneaten feed that is broken down by bacteria. This process is called ammonification.

2. Nitrification: Ammonia is then oxidized to nitrite (NO2-) by nitrifying bacteria, such as Nitrosomonas. This process is called nitritation.

- Nitrosomonas + NH3 + O2 → NO2- + H+ + H2O

3. Nitrate formation: Nitrite is then oxidized to nitrate (NO3-) by other nitrifying bacteria, such as Nitrobacter. This process is called nitratation.

- Nitrobacter + NO2- + H2O → NO3- + 2H+

Ammonia Effects

1. Toxicity: Ammonia can be toxic to fish at high concentrations. Ammonia can cause damage to gills, skin, and eyes of fish.

2. Gill damage: Ammonia can cause damage to fish gills, reducing their ability to breathe.

3. Growth inhibition: Ammonia can inhibit fish growth by reducing appetite and increasing stress.

Controlling the Ammonia Cycle

1. Biological filtration: Biological filters can help break down ammonia and nitrite into nitrate. Biological filters can be filled with media that provides a large surface area for nitrifying bacteria to grow.

2. Nitrifying bacteria: Nitrifying bacteria can be added to the aquaculture system to help oxidize ammonia and nitrite.

3. Water quality management: Good water quality management can help reduce ammonia concentrations. Water quality management can be achieved by regular water changes and monitoring water quality parameters.

By controlling the ammonia cycle, aquaculture can maintain healthy fish and good water quality.

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