Aquaculture
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A Comparison of the Effect of Anolyte and Effective Microorganisms® (Kyusei EMTM) on the Faecal Bacterial Loads in the Water and on Fish Produced in Pig-cum-Fish Integrated Production Units
D. Hanekom, J.F. Prinsloo∗ and H.J. Schoonbee
Aquaculture Research Unit University of the North P/Bag X1106, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
*All correspondence should be addressed to : Tel. (015) 2682294; Fax. (015)2682294; Email: Koosp@Uni.unorth.ac.za
Abstract
The production potential of pig manure on fish growth and water quality in integrated pig-fish systems was investigated using effective micro-organisms (Kyusei EM™) with or without formulated pig feeds and Anolyte. Both Anolyte and EM effectively reduced faecal bacterial loads in pig manure. EM positively affected pig growth but this was obscured with the introduction from the second month of growth hormone and antibiotics in the pig diets. The application of manure from both treated and untreated pigs had a positive effect on fish yields, improving the feed conversion ratio of the fish to below 2. The EM-A containing manure, however, significantly improved the overall FCR producing a value of 1.4. The application of EM-A containing pig manure also had a marked effect on some faecal organism counts in the manure and in the water of the fish ponds, but also reduced the somatic coliphage numbers significantly. Faecal Streptococci and E. coli found in the kidneys, gills, spleen and liver of the Mozambique tilapia which were used as pond fish, may well have a medium to long term negative implication for the use of animal manures containing faecal bacteria. This aspect required serious attention in future research where agricultural waste products of this nature are used to stimulate fish pond production.
Introduction
The incorporation of agricultural waste products into integrated aquaculture-agriculture food production systems, the advantages it has in reducing environmental pollution and the beneficial effect such waste products have on fish and crop production, had been practically demonstrated by research and development projects in South Africa and elsewhere (Prinsloo and Schoonbee, 1984 a,b,c; Prinsloo and Schoonbee, 1986: Prinsloo and Schoonbee, 1987; Prinsloo et al., 1999 a, b; Pullen and Shedeh, 1980; Edwards, 1991; Diallo, 1992). In recent years, innovative techniques which further positively affected the food production potential of integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems, were developed and applied in other fields of agriculture and environmental quality control (Higa, 1996; Higa, 1998; Sangakkara, 1998). One of these includes the EM Technology (Higa, 1996; Higa, 1998) whilst another, namely Anolyte(Hinze, personal communication) may play an important future role in combating environmental pollution in intensive food production systems.
EM Technology is largely based on the rejuvenation of environmentally contaminated agricultural soils and the establishment of healthy soil conditions by the introduction of beneficial micro-organisms cultured, resulting in the replacement and/or elimination of potentially harmful micro-organisms and insects. At the same time the EM technology can also make a significant contribution towards the reduction and eventual total elimination of pesticides in previously cultivated soils (Parr et al., 1998).
By using animal manures in integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems, the problem of nutrient build-up as well as faecal contamination of fish pond water may affect fish production potential of water prior to its use in the irrigation of vegetable crops.
It was shown in the literature that fish produced in faecal bacterial contaminated water may be detrimentally affected by the occurrence of faecal Streptococcus belonging to the Lancefield Group D in tissues and organs of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss ( Walbaum, 1792) (Boomker et al., 1979) but with no apparent affect on Mozambique tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus (Petersen, 1852) and banded tilapia sparmanii (A Smith, 1840). Hoshina et al. ((1958) suggested that these non- hemolytic enterococci may be a strain of Streptococcus faecalis, differing in its relation to its optimum pH and temperature requirements as well as the source from which it has been isolated. Barham et al. (1979) investigated the physiological affects of Aeromonas and Streptococcus infection on rainbow trout, suggest that Aeromonas infection may be of secondary nature following the occurrence of Streptococcus infection. Snieszko and Axelrod (1971) showed that Aeromonas liquefaciens may also cause infectious dropsy and naemorrhagic speticaemia in freshwater fish.
The present investigation deals with the following aspects of an integrated pig-fish production system. Different treatments, with and without the inclusion of EM and Anolyte technologies in the prodcution of pigs under controlled environmental conditions were applied. Manures from EM-A treated and untreated pigs, were then used as additional nutrients to promote O. mossambicus’s growth in ponds. This was supplemented by using a formulated pelleted fish diet. Physical and chemical conditions of pond water were also investigated to evaluate nutrient enrichment of pond water by pig manure.
The occurrence of faecal bacteria, which included total Coliforms, faecal Coliforms, faecal E. coli, and faecal Streptococci (Group D), in pig manure of the four different experimental groups as well as the fish pond water, were determined. The possible affects of EM-A on specific faecal bacterial loads, are briefly considered, particularly so on Coliphages organisms in the fish pond aquatic environment. Streptococcil infections in kidneys, gills, livers and spleens of O.mossambicus pond fish and possible consequences threof on the fish health status, are considered.
Materials and Methods
Pigs used in the Investigation
A total of 40 mixed bred pigs (50 percent Duroc, 25 percent Landras, 25 percent Large White = F2) divided into four groups were obtained from the Mockford Farms, Pietersburg, The pigs were divided into 4 groups of 10 pigs each and housed in newly constructed disease free pig sties at a density of one pig/m2. Unlimited water was supplied to each unit using drinking nipples. Pigs were fed ad lib, making use of commercially available pig feed troughs. Commercial diets were applied.
Feed Treatments
Different feed treatments were administered to four groups of pigs. Group 1 received 2.5 percent EM Bokashi (Kyan et al., 1999) mixed in with the food as well as Anolyte (a free radical oxidant) (Hinze, personal communication) which was sprayed into two of the pig house as a fine mist at a volume of 150 m/min/sprinkler, at intervals of 30 minutes for 8 hours per day. Two elevated mist sprinklers were installed at a height of 1.5 metres covering the entire surface area of the pig house where Anolyte was applied. Mist spray per time interval lasted 2 minutes.
Anolyte Technologies
The Anolyte technology was introduced into South Africa from Russia by Radical Waters, Co. ltd., Johannesburg, and consists of electrochemically activated NaC water produced which served as a sterilizing solution. pH of this solution was adjusted to 7.5 and diluted to 50 percent mixture with water before used in the mist spray programme. Although not utilized, a positively charged catolyte-anti-oxidant is also produced, suitable as a washing solution or vitamin enricher.
Preparation of EM Bokashi Used in Pig Food
The basic constituents (on a mass basis) included 70 percent wheat bran, 15 percent maize bran, 5 percent each of soya bean meal, fish meal and bone meal, respectively. The ingredients were properly mixed, using a concrete mixer. A 1:1:500 (on a volume basis) EM:molasses:water mixture was then sprayed on to the mixture to obtain an approximate moisture content of 35 percent. The mix was then transferred to a woven hessian bag and anaerobically sealed in a black plastic bag. A seven day period was allowed for obtaining the necessary state of fermentation of the material before being mixed in with the pig food.
Feeding Programme
Group 1 of the pigs received EM (2.5 percent) mixed in with the feed together with Anolyte spray. Group 2 received the standard rations without EM, but with the Anolyte spray. The Group 3 pigs, received EM only, mixed in with the feed whilst in the control group (Group 4) no EM or Anolyte applications were made. The feeding programme of all four groups of pigs were basically similar. During the first 30 days a formulated 18 percent protein pig weaner ration was provided. This was followed for the next 30 days with a super formulated 27 percent protein formulated diet. For the last 15 days of the pig feeding programme a 36 percent finisher formulated diet was provided. Pigs from groups 2 and 4 (Anolyte treatment and control) received growth hormone plus flavomycin as anti-biotic mixed in with the feed. The amount of food consumed by each group of pigs was carefully monitored on a daily basis.
Mass Determination of Pigs and Removal of Pig Manure
In order to assess the effects of the different treatments on pig growth, mass determination of individual pigs within each group were made every fortnight. The floors of the pig houses were thoroughly cleaned daily from pig waste and washed with water. Effluent water was discharged into gravel filters to remove any remaining solid wastes after which the wastewater was returned to the main reservoir for later use in fish ponds and for irrigation of different vegetable plots. Floors of pig houses receiving EM treated food, were also lightly sprayed with a 1:500 diluted solution of EM to reduce any odours arising from the pig manure.
Fish Production
Six ponds of 25 M2 each provided with plastic canopies for temperature control, were used for stocking the fish. In each pond the tilapia O. mossambicus (Zululand strain) were stocked at a density of 40,000/ha. The mean individual mass of fish at stocking was 38.5 g. All Fish in each pond were individually weighed before stocking. Pig manure was applied to each pond for six days per week at 2.5 percent (dry mass of the total live biomass of the fish in the ponds. Mass adjustment of the pig manure dosage programme for the different ponds was made fortnightly, based on fish mass assessment using 20 –30 percent subsamples. Two sets of 3 ponds each were investigated. In the first three ponds, manure from EM-A treated pigs were used. The second group of ponds received manure from the untreated (control) pigs. In addition to pig manure, all fish ponds received a 30 percent protein formulated fish pellet daily for 6 days/week at 4 percent of the estimated fish biomass per pond. Due to the build up of algal growth in the ponds all ponds were aerated during the period of investigation. An Electror blower supplied air to the ponds. Water replacements started 30 days after the commencement of the fish feeding programme when approximately 20 percent of the volume of each pond was replaced once per week with water from the main reservoir. Final individual mass determinations of the fish from each pond, including the wild spawn, were made to establish the total fish production over a period of 71 days for both sets of fish. A feed conversion ratio for the formulated feed was then calculated.
Water Chemistry
Chemical parameters of fish pond water were analysed according to Standard Methods (1995). Water temperature (c) was measured using s Thies hydro-thermograph. Dissolved oxygen concentrations (mg. –1) were determined using an Oxy 92 oxygen meter. pH values were determined with a portable Hanna 8244 pH meter. The electrical conductivity (S.cm–1) was recorded with a Hanna H1 8633 conductivity meter. Ammonia (NH3-mg. –1) nitrite (NO2-mg–1), nitrate (NO3-mg–1), orthophosphate (PO4-mg–1 ), as well as turbidity (NTU) were all determined using a Hach spectrophotometer. Magnesium (MgCO3-mg–1), calcium (CaCO3-mg–1), total hardness (CaCO3-mg–1 ) and alkalinity were titrimetically determined. Mean values, as well as ranges for each parameter, were determined and tabulated.
Bacteriological Analysis
Plaque Assay for Somatic Coliphages Using the Double Agar Layer Technique
The methodologies followed as assaying techniques employed in the evaluation of faecal bacterial loads in pig manure as well as in fish pond waer receiving treated and untreated pig manure, were conducted according to internationally accepted standards (Ketchum, 1942; Pelczar, 1916; Lenette et al., 1988; Grabow et al., 1995; SABS, 1990; Genthe and Du Preez, 1995).
Quantitative Assessments
Quantitative assessments of the various organisms were made which included total bacterial counts, total Coliforms, faecal Coliforms, faecal Escherichia coli (strain ATCC 25922), faecal Streptococci group D and somatic Coliphages.
Conventional plaque assays for somatic Coliphages were usually done on small volumes of water (1.0 m) based on techniques as describe by Adams (1959).
Inverted plates were incubated at 35-37º C for 24 h after which plaques were counted. Bacterial nutrient broth (Difco or equivalent) were used as growth media. The respective compositions of phage bottom and phage top agar and the test procedure followed, are described in Grabow et al (1995).
Bacterial Sampling of Pig Manure
Fresh pig manure samples from each of the four treatments were collected at fortnightly intervals during the early morning for the necessary bacteriological analysis. Care was taken to do all collections under sterile conditions.
Collection and Treatment of Fish Pond Water for Bacterial Analysis
Water samples from fish ponds receiving manure from EM-A treated and untreated pigs respectively were sampled fortnightly and analysed for total bacterial counts, total Coliforms, faecal Coliforms, faecal E coli, faecal Streptococci and somatic Coliphages. Total Coliforms and somatic Coliphages were incubated at 37º C for 24h. Faecal Streptococci, faecal Coliforms and faecal E. coli, were incubated at 44º C for 24 h. Total bacterial counts were made after 48 h at 30º C. the investigation lasted for 9 weeks.
Bacterial Analysis of Selected Fish Organs
Target fish organs selected for analysis of faecal Streptococci group D and faecal E.coli included kidneys, gills, spleens and livers. To obtain sufficient material, three fish from each of the three different ponds, for each pig manure treatment, were randomly selected and the above mentioned organs were clinically removed under sterile conditions for bacterial analysis.
Results Pig Production
Results on growth statistics of the pigs for the various feeding programmes are summarized in Table 1. Based on the mass increment, yields and feed quantities consumed by different groups of pigs, feed conversion ratios (FCR) suggest no significant difference in pig production between any of the pigs for the different treatments. In all cases, FCR ranged between a narrow 2.78 (Anolyte treatment) and 2.87 (EM-A treatment). One mortality occurred in the control group of pigs. It must be noted that prior to the inclusion of growth hormone which began 30 days after commencement of the investigation, both EM treated pigs had a slight weight advantage over the Anolyte and control groups.
Fish Production in Pig Manure Treated Ponds
Results of fish production in ponds receiving pig manure from EM-A treated and untreated pigs with formulated fish feeds over a period of 71 days are summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Fish mortalities in both sets of fish ponds were low and similar, ranging from 5.6 percent(control) to 6 percent (EM-A). Wild spawns took place in both sets of ponds and their respective contributions towards the yields were included in the final standing crops. Based on the initial estimated and final yields of the actual fish stocked in the two different treatments, the crop produced by the EM-A treated ponds exhibited a 4.0 percent better yield at the end of the investigation. Together with the fish mass contribution by the wild spawns in both sets of ponds, the EM-A ponds yielded an 18.5 percent higher total mass than those of the control ponds with yield of 4348 kg/ha as against 3688 kg/ha for the control ponds.
The respective feed conversion ratios of all fish produced as measured by the feed-crop ratio, amounted to 1.4 for EM-A treated compared to 1.7 the control ponds. The actual contribution of the pig manure cannot be calculated but must have played a significant role in the total yields obtained, judged by previous investigations by Prinsloo and Schoonbee (1984 a) and Prinsloo and Schoonbee (1986).
Water Quality Conditions in Fish Ponds
Results of the water quality conditions of fish ponds receiving EM-A and untreated pig manure are listed in Tables 4 and 5 respectively. The installation of plastic canopies over the fish ponds clearly elevated water temperatures which prevailed during all three months of the experimental period. At no time did the mean water temperatures decline below 20º C.
Values for dissolved oxygen were similar with mean values to be slightly higher during April and May in the EM-A treated pig manure ponds. In both sets of ponds the pH of the water was largely alkaline. Water used in both ponds had a similar conductivity and showed no undue build-up of dissolved salts over the period of investigation. Data for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate did not reflect any serious build-up of any of the three parameters showing that the nitrification process was effective in both pond systems. As a result of the concentration of soluble reactive phosphorous, phytoplankton activity can be expected in both types of fish ponds. The periodic addition of freshwater is reflected by the value obtained for turbidity in both types of ponds. Values for calcium, magnesium and total hardness corresponded in both cases with those of electrical conductivity and pH. This also applied to alkalinity.
Bacterial Counts in Pig Manure
Total Coliforms
A comparison of the total Coliforms counts in the pig manure for the various combinations of EM and Anolyte treatments, as well as for the control feeding programme for four successive fortnightly periods, are listed in Table 6. In all cases, faeces from pigs receiving EM, in their feed and sprayed with Anolyte, were markedly lower in their Coliform counts. The addition of Anolyte alone does not appear to materially reduce the total Coliform counts where it was applied. In the case of Anolyte application alone, suggestions are, however, that this kind of treatment may well play a role in the reduction of faecal Coliform in the faeces of pigs (Table 6). The most variable results, however, occurred in the final data of the control experiments.
Faecal Coliforms
Results for the fourth fortnight period (21/04) (Table 6) are not available. Of all the results, the EM-Anolyte combination proved to be most effective in the reduction of faecal Coliform counts in pig manure, followed by that of the EM only treatment. Interestingly enough, the faecal Coliform counts in control pigs were on average lower that those of the Anolyte treated pigs which can largely be ascribed by the exceptionally high counts experienced during the first sampling period.
Table 4. Water Quality Conditions of Fish Pond Water Receiving EM-A Treated Pig Manure During an Autumn Production Cycle (March-May 1999)
Analysis | Consecutive | Months | (March-May) | 1999 |
---|---|---|---|---|
March N=6 | April N=6 | May N=2 | ||
Temperature | x | 25.4 | 24.2 | 21.3 |
ºC | Range | (20.8-31.1) | (17.3-32.0) | (16.0-27.5) |
Dissolved Oxygen | x | 7.9 | 7.2 | 7.4 |
(mg/l-1) | Range | (4.3-10.8) | (6.0-8.7) | (7.2-7.5) |
pH | Range | 6.73-9.96 | 7.37-7.84 | 6.93-8.93 |
Conductivity | x | 201.8 | 238.8 | 201.5 |
(u Scm-1) | Range | (141.0-252.0) | (136.0-340.0) | (188.0-215.0) |
Ammonia | x | 1.169 | 0.846 | 0.120 |
(NH3 mg/l-1) | Range | (0.842-1.501) | (0.601-1.041) | (0.106-0.133) |
Nitrate | x | 0.011 | 0.029 | 0.024 |
(NO2mg/l-1) | Range | (0.003-0.026) | (tr-0.087) | (0.021-0.027) |
Calcium hardness | x | 44.8 | 38.0 | 30.0 |
(CaCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (21.0-59.0) | (29.0-48.0) | (28.0-32.0) |
Magnesium hardness | x | 20.0 | 17.2 | 30.0 |
(MgCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (17.0-23.0) | (7.0-30.0) | (13.0-47.0) |
Total hardness | x | 64.2 | 55.2 | 55.0 |
(CaCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (39.0-82.0) | (32.0-71.0) | (45.0-55.0) |
Alkalinity | x | 70.5 | 48.8 | 51.0 |
(CaCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (42.0-86.0) | (28.0-60.0) | (47.0-55.0) |
Orthophosphate | x | 5.92 | 3.04 | 2.69 |
(PO4mg/l-1) | Range | (2.96-12.43) | (1.61-5.78) | (1.99-3.40) |
Turbidity NTU | 98.7 | 24.3 | 54.5 |
Table 5. Water Quality Conditions of Fish Pond Water Receiving Untreated Pig Manure During An Autumn Production Cycle (March-May 1999)
Analysis | Consecutive | Months | (March-May) | 1999 |
---|---|---|---|---|
March N=6 | April N=6 | May N=2 | ||
Temperature | x | 25.4 | 24.3 | 21.3 |
ºC | Range | (20.8-31.1) | (17.3-32.0) | (16.0-27.5) |
Dissolved Oxygen | x | 8.9 | 6.3 | 6.6 |
(mg/l-1) | Range | (6.7-12.7) | (4.8-8.5) | (6.3-6.7) |
pH | Range | 7.07-9.86 | 7.09-7.59 | 7.00-7.11 |
Conductivity | x | 232.7 | 234.5 | 220.3 |
(u Scm-1) | Range | (95.0-494.0) | (140.0-406.0) | (168.0-280.0) |
Ammonia | x | 0.775 | 1.145 | 0.134 |
(NH3 mg/l-1) | Range | (0.683-0.842) | (0.770-2.651) | (0.110-0.152) |
Nitrate | x | 0.002 | 0.006 | 0.026 |
(NO2mg/l-1) | Range | (tr-0.006) | (0.001-0.012) | (0.019-0.036) |
Calcium hardness | x | 2.64 | 3.38 | 5.5 |
(CaCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (tr-5.28) | (1.1-5.4) | (5.1-6.3) |
Magnesium hardness | x | 41.5 | 30.0 | 29.3 |
(MgCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (11.0-76.0) | (24.0-45.0) | (22.0-37.0) |
Total hardness | x | 20.2 | 25.8 | 25.3 |
(CaCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (9.0-40.0) | (0.0-43.0) | (15.0-43.0) |
Alkalinity | x | 61.7 | 55.8 | 48.0 |
(CaCO3mg/l-1) | Range | (27.0-116.0) | (28.0-72.0) | (42.0-49.0) |
Orthophosphate | x | 65.7 | 50.3 | 49.3 |
(PO4mg/l-1) | Range | (16.0-121.0) | (37.0-75.0) | (34.0-55.0) |
Turbidity NTU | 88.0 | 24.2 | 45.0 | |
(64.0-133.0 | (11.0-39.0) | (35.0-56.0) |
Faecal E. coli
A comparison of the results of faecal E. coli counts (Table 6) in pig manure of the various treatments suggest that despite variation in E. coli numbers, both the EM-Anolyte (separate and in combination) were effective in the reduction of this organism, compared to the mean values recorded for control pigs.
Faecal Streptococci
Faecal Streptococcai counts for the various treatments (Table 6) suggest the EM-combination with Anolyte to be the most effective in the reduction of the numbers of this organism, with EM to be the second most effective, followed by Anolyte. Control values for faecal Streptococci were clearly the highest.
Somatic Coliphages
It is important to note that the diets of the pigs containing EM-A were extremely effective in the marked reduction of somatic Coliphages followed by that of EM. Anolyte alone also showed some effect on the reduction of Coliphages with the control values clearly being the highest.
Bacterial Counts in Fish Pond Water Receiving EM-A Containing and Untreated (Control) Pig Manure
In each case, three ponds were sampled for bacterial analysis for various faecal organisms. Total bacterial counts in the fish ponds receiving manure from EM-A treated pigs were significantly lower than those from the control (untreated) pigs (Table 7). This also applied to total Coliforms and faecal Coliforms, and to a lesser extent in the case of faecal E.coli. There was a market effect on the reduction of faecal Streptococci in the water receiving manure from the EM-A treated pigs. As was the case for the somatic Coliphages in the manure of the EM-A treated pigs, the effect of this treatment clearly resulted in a significant reduction in the somatic Coliform organisms of the fish pond water.
Comparison of Faecal Streptococci and Faecal E. coli in the Kidneys, Gills, Spleen and Liver of Fish kept in Ponds Receiving Manures from EM-A Treated and Untreated Pigs
Results of faecal as well as Coliphage organisms were based on three replicates each for both pig manure and water samples, as well as from nine replicates of randomly selected fish analysed for faecal Streptococci and faecal E coil from the kidneys, gills, spleens and livers from ponds receiving manure from EM-A treated and untreated pigs (Table 7 and 8). These data clearly suggest that the manure from the EM-A treated pigs may have a marked bearing on the higher numbers of faecal Streptococci and faecal E. coli recorded from the different organs analysed.
Discussion
Data obtained on the use of Anolyte as a disinfectant in pig production showed some promise but further investigations into its use as control agent for the reduction or eradication of faecal bacterial loads in the pig houses as well as in ponds used in aquaculture-agriculture systems need to be undertaken.
The incorporation of antibiotics and growth hormones, in particular, in pig feeds, obscured the positive results of EM on pig growth and may well conceal the stress reduction effects of these substances on the animals. The single mortality amongst the control group of pigs, may have been avoided if EM was incorporated in all pig rations which, cost-wise, may be a substance of choice in reduction in stress related diseases of these and other animals. There is no doubt that the treatment of large quantities of manure generated on pig farms with EM may assist is solving some of the problems of environmental pollution and at the same time may lead to the production of a good quality compost which can be used in integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems.
Data on fish production in ponds clearly demonstrate the potential advantages of pig manure as supplementary nutrient in yields in combination with pelleted fish feeds. This approach may therefore also be beneficial in the application of other agricultural and industrial wastes incorporated in integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems.
Despite the fact that significant quantities of pig manure were used to fertilize ponds, water quality conditions remained good for the entire duration of the fish production period. The effectiveness of both the EM and Anolyte to reduce the numbers of somatic Coliform organisms in fish ponds, poses a serious problem as this phenomenon is contrary to what may be required for the reduction of faecal organisms in fish ponds. The present investigation suggests that, contrary to te findings of Boomker et al. (1979), the Mozambique tilapia O. mossambicus, may also be susceptible to infection by faecal Streptococci and E. coli in faecal bacteria contaminated ponds. This may have a direct bearing on the health status of pond fish produced with the application of pig an other animal manures as nutrient in fish ponds. Further investigations on diseases caused by faecal bacteria in fish must therefore be pursued.
Acknowledgement
The authors wish to thank the University of the North for facilities provided and financial support which made this investigation possible. Mockford Farms are thanked for the use of pigs, as well as the supply of pig feeds. To Dr. G. Hinze of Radical Waters, our appreication for the use of the FEM apparatus. Prof. G. Smith and Prof. Cloete from the University of Pretoria provided valuable advice. Our sincere thanks to Mr. A.T.J. Scholtz (Senior Technician, ARU) and the technical team for their consistent hard work, Mr. J. Turner for editorial comments and Ms. N. Harris for typing the manuscript.
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Impact of Effective Microorganisms® in Shrimp Culture Using Different Concentrations of Brackish Water
S Pongdit, *T. W. Thongkaew EMRO (Thailand) Co., ltd., Monririn Bldg. 3F Soi Sailom Phahonyothin Rd. Bangkok , Thailand
* Chaiyapruek shrimp farm, Songklong subdistrict, Bangpakong district, Chachoengsao province
Abstract
The cultivation of black tiger shrimps in Thailand is a popular enterprise due to its export potential. Effective Microorganisms (EM) has been used in this system for the production of shrimp under organic conditions. The use of different concentrations of brackish water had no impact on growth due to the use of EM. The water quality was maintained, and yields of shrimps were high. The potential of this technology for shrimp culture is presented.
Keywords: brackish water, water quality, yield
Introduction
Shrimp farming in Thailand has become a multi-billion dollar industry and a major export enterprise. Today, Thailand is the world’s leading exporter and the largest producer of black tiger prawn (Direk et al., 1998). Studying the impact of EM technology for shrimp farming in water with different levels of salinity is a new aspect in organic shrimp production, as it is safe for both producers and consumers. Therefore, a project was initiated to ascertain the impact of EM in producing organic shrimps with EM Technology.
Materials and methods
The study was conducted on two farms. The first was the Chaiyapruek Shrimp Farm located in Chachoengsao Province, where the salinity of water ranges between 0 – 2 ppt. The second was the Laemsing Shrimp Farm located in Chantaburi Province, whose water salinity was 20 - 22 ppt.
Extended EM, Bokashi and EM5 were applied to the ponds during preparation and also during culturing until harvest. Garlic extract with EM5 was mixed with feed before feeding once a day. Banana extract with extended EM was mixed with feed before feeding the other meals (2 – 4 times) each day.
Water of the two ponds was tested for BOD, COD, NH3, P, coliform, pH, and salinity in either ponds were done according to the following schedule: one day prior to releasing shrimps into the ponds (seeding), 60 days and 90 days after seeding respectively. The fresh weight of shrimps was also measured after harvest. Feed amount and EM consumption were calculated together with the whole costs, yields, income and profit.
Results and discussion
The principal water quality parameters for shrimp farms are dissolved oxygen, pH and the concentration of ammonia (Direk, 1998 mentioned to Funge-Smith and Briggs, 1995). Quality of water of the two farms was not significantly different before and after seeding. The levels of ammonia, BOD, COD and phosphorus were low and the pH and coliform counts were at acceptable ranges (Table 1 and Table 2). These results suggest that EM can control the quality of water at various levels of water salinity. The shrimps were very healthy, had fewer odours and free from diseases. The cost of production was low as EM is cheap (Table 3 and Table 4) and the use of EM produced lower Feed Conversion Ratios (Table 5). Farmers were also able to save costs expended for chemicals, which were approximately 90,000 baht per 5 rai pond or 0.8 ha pond. (Suwat, 1997). The use of EM made it possible to harvest three crops of shrimps per year without changing the water .In contrast, general conventional shrimp farmers could harvest shrimps only once or two times per year, with necessary changes in water (Direk et al., 1998). Therefore, farmers who apply EM in shrimp culture could derive profits from every crop from both fresh water and saltwater (Table 4). Analyses of shrimps for antibiotic residues illustrated the absence of any residues (Table 6). This indicated the organic nature of shrimps produced with EM. The potential of producing organic shrimps with EM was clearly evident from this study.
Table 1. The comparison of BOD, COD, NH3, P, Coliform, pH and Salinity of EM pond at the Chaiyapruek shrimp farm: prior to shrimp launching, Day 60, and Day 90 after launching of shrimps
Parameter | Pre-launching | D60 | D90 | Units | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BOD | 13.33 | 18.00 | 23.00 | mg/L | ||
COD | 164.33 | 224.66 | 178.00 | mg/L | ||
NH3 | Not detected | Not detected | Not detected | |||
P |
2.06 | 4.23 | 2.90 | mg/L | ||
Coliform | 833.33 | 346.66 | 433.33 | MNP/100L | ||
pH (1100-1200 hrs) | 8.16 | 8.13 | 7.82 | |||
Salinity | 2.00 | 1.30 | 1.00 | ppt |
Table 2 The comparison of BOD, COD, NH3, P, coliform, pH and salinity of EM pond at the Laemsing Shrimp Farm : prior to shrimp launching, Day 60, and Day 90 after launching of shrimps
Parameter | Pre-launching | D60 | D90 | Unit |
---|---|---|---|---|
BOD | 9.30 | 12.00 | - | mg/L |
COD | 48.66 | 64.33 | - | mg/L |
NH3 | Not detected | Not detected | - | - |
P |
0.20 | 0.53 | - | mg/L |
Coliform | 966.66 | 500.00 | - | MNP/100L |
pH | 7.83 | 8.10 | - | |
Salinity | 21.00 | 22.00 | - | ppt |
Table 3 The comparison of cost between the Chaiyapruek and Laemsing Shrimp Farms
Parameter | Cost/Baht | USD ($) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Chaiyauek (300,000 seeds) | Laemsing (200,000 seeds) | |||
Seed prawns | 45,000 | 1,046.51 | 30,000 | 697.67 |
Bokashi | 14,500 | 337.21 | 8,500 | 197.67 |
EM | 6,800 | 158.14 | 4,896 | 113.80 |
EM5 | 16,250 | 377.91 | 9,000 | 209.30 |
Banana | 2,500 | 58.14 | 2,000 | 46.51 |
Garlic | 1,000 | 23.26 | 800 | 18.60 |
Feed | 65,280 | 1,518.14 | 59,400 | 1,381.40 |
Workers | 9,000 | 209.30 | 6,000 | 139.53 |
Petrol | 25,000 | 581.40 | 10,000 | 232.56 |
Electricity | 1,500 | 34.88 | 1,000 | 23.26 |
Total | 186,830 | 4,344.88 | 131,596 | 3,060.37 |
Table 4 The comparison of cost, yield, income and profit between Chaiyapruek and Laemsing Farms
Parameter | Chaiyauek Farm | Laemsing Farm | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Baht | USD | Baht | USD | |
Cost (baht) | 186,830 | 4,344.88 | 131,596 | 3,060.37 |
Yield (kg) | 1,700 | 1,500 | ||
Income (baht) | 595,000 | 13,837.21 | 225,000 | 5,232.56 |
Profit (baht) | 408,170 | 9,492.33 | 93,404 | 2,1725.19 |
Table 5 The comparison of FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio) between Chaiyapruek and Laemsing Shrimp Farms
Parameter | Chaiyauek Farm | Laemsing Farm |
---|---|---|
No. of shrimp seed /m2 | 37.5 | 41.8 |
Total feed/ crop (kg) | 2,176 | 1,980 |
Total Yield (kg) | 1,700 | 1,500 |
No. of prawn /kg | 40 | 70 |
FCR | 1.28 | 1.32 |
Table 6 Results of anti- biotic accumulation analyses
Type of aquatic animal | Method of analysis | Result | |
---|---|---|---|
Microbiological Assay | HPLC Oxolinic acid (ppm) | ||
Black Tiger prawn | Not detected | Not detected | Passed |
Basis of judging: “Passed” means there is no anti-biotic accumulation by microbiological assay and > 0.05 ppm of oxolinic acid by HPLC method.
Conclusion
Shrimp farming with EM application in different levels and kinds of water salinity could control the quality of water such as pH, ammonia and phosphate etc. even though the water is not exchanged throughout the crop. This result suggests that it has a positive impact on the environment. The input cost is lower, so farmers can get more profit. The production of shrimp farming with EM is organic shrimp.
Acknowledgement
This study was conducted with the support of Prof. Dr. Teruo Higa, EMRO Headquaters, and APNAN’s senior technical officer and staff. I would like to express my gratitude to the owners of Chaiyapruek shrimp farm and Laemsing shrimp farm for their cooperation and assistance in studying the results of EM in the farms. These results could guide others who would like to produce organic shrimp.
References
Chalor Limsuwan (2000).” Black tiger prawn culture of the new decade,” Thai Shrimp: 260 .
Direk Patmasiriwat et al. (1998). The Shrimp Aquaculture Sector in Thailand: A review of Economic, Environmental and Trade Issue.: 35.
Kriangsak Poonsuk et al. (2001). “Biotechnology for black tiger prawn culture,” Rimbo Journal, Vol. 30, (February) : 22-23.
Songsak Sriboonjit (2001).” Situation of Thai shrimp in the world,” Shrimp culture newsletter, Vol. 150, (January):: 3-4.
Suwat Nindum (1997). “Black tiger prawn culture with EM application,” Kaset Kyusei Journal, Vol. 23, (October-December) : 58-62.
Tawatchai Suntikul (2000). “The matter of black tiger prawn,” Chaoban technology, Vol. 249, (October): : 63-64.
Tawatchai Suntikul (2000). “Do you know EM well?,” Aquatic Business Magazine, Vol. 13, (November): : 77-78.
Prawn Culture With EM Technology®
Introduction
The term prawn and shrimp are often used interchangeably depending on which part of the globe you are in. Prawns and shrimps may belong to the freshwater, egg-bearing family Palaemonidae or the marine, non-egg bearing Family Penaeidae. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization has adopted the convention of referring to all palaemonids as prawns and all penaeids as shrimps.
However, both the SEAFDEC AQD and the local farmers and hatchery operators use prawn to refer to Penaeus monodon or sugpo and prawn or shrimp interchangeably for the smaller penaeids.
Prospects
Fish ponds and prawn farms are exempted from the coverage of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law. This is an incentive to those who intend to venture in prawn farming, who have to catch up in the world market and strengthen their position in existing markets, especially Japan (480/0 of world market).
The United States accounts for about 28010 of the world market for prawns and shrimps, followed by Europe (170/0). India, China and Indonesia are the biggest producers of Black Tiger prawns, accounting for about 540/0 of global trade.
It is expected that the supply and demand gap to be 450,000 metric tons until the year 2000.
The South Korean quota system for prawns will soon be lifted. This market opportunity is more on head-on shrimps which is considered a semi-1uxury product.
China, due to its ever expanding population, has become a net importer of shrimps. It intends to concentrate on its white shrimp production to satisfy its expanding local market. This is a big opportunity for the Philippine shrimp and prawn industry to diversify and overcome its dependence on only one species-the Black Tiger.
Kinds of Prawns and Shrimp
Among the 300 species of penaeid prawns and shrimps recorded worldwide, only around 80 are commercially important in terms of capture and culture fisheries. In the Philippines, the following are the most economically important in terms of pond culture:
.Penaeus monodon - giant tiger prawn or sugpo, Iukon or pansat in the native tongue. The biggest of the penaeid group (500-600 gms. offshore catch) or 30-60gm./ piece at intensive farming. Characterized by high survival rates of up to 90'/o in grow-out ponds. Survives a wide range of temperature and salinity levels and can tolerate over-crowding for a short time.
Penaeus indicus and P. merguiensis (white shrimp or banana shrimp), known as hipong puti or putian. Fries and adults of these two species resemble each other. They are fast growing. They range from 10-20g at high density and 20-30g at low density stocking within 3 months. Both can tolerate high salinity but cannot withstand rough handling.
Metapenaeus ensis (Greasyback shrimp), or the hipong suwahe/pasayan has a short growing period in ponds (2-3 months). Sizes range from 10-15g and are more resistant to handling.
Environmental Requirements of Prawns
Salinity: A salinity range of 10-25ppt. is recommended for sugpo, Putian can tolerate up to 40ppt.
Temperature: The recommended optimum temperature range for good growth and survival rates of prawn is 25º-30ºC. At lower temperatures, feeding stops and growth is affected, whereas at higher temperatures. DO level decreases and mortality increases.
DO (Dissolved Oxygen) level: The minimum acceptable DO level is 3-4ppm. Below 2ppm., prawns exhibit hyperactivity followed by swimming at the surface then death.
pH level: Optimum pH is 7-8.5. pH of 5 and below are lethal to prawns.
Microflora: The population of microorganisms in the pond is equally important in prawn cultures. Phytoplanktons are microscopic plants used as foods for prawn and shrimp larvae. The pond must have optimum population of these planktons. Studies have shown that up to 700/0 of the total oxygen used up by shrimps and fishes are due to phytoplanktons, bacteria and other microorganisms present near or on the pond bottom. With these regards, we recommend the use of EM Technology ® in prawn farming. EM Technology® EM® stands for "Effective Microorganisms®" which is a group of coexisting beneficial and non-pathogenic microorganisms of both aerobic and anaerobic types, such as, lactic acid bacteria, photosynthetic bacteria, yeasts and actinomycetes (*Note: older formulations of EM•1® used to contain slightly different species of microbes. EM® is now standardized around the world and no longer contains actinomycetes*). The major function of EM® is "regeneration, without harming nature, including human beings, plants and animals." Microorganisms which have strong oxidizing effects are generally harmful to men, but those which have strong anti-oxidation effects are beneficial to men. Everything in nature is oxidized and putrefied. Antioxidants prevent oxidation and decay and helps maintain health by the elimination of excessive free radicals generated in the form of energy needed during the growth process.
Major functions of EM ®
EM Technology® therefore, is a system wherein these microorganisms are utilized to attain good results from whatever purpose, which, in this case is prawn farming. The objectives of incorporating EM Technology ® in prawn farming are:
- To decrease the capital outlay;
- To raise them until they are 120-140 day old without any problem;
- To improve the quality and increase the yield per unit area;
- And to conserve nature and the environment.
Traditional science is incapable of resenting a viable explanation as to how EM® makes all these possible. But when one accepts the fact all is deteriorated in the process of oxidation, the role of EM® as antioxidant becomes self-explanatory.
CLOSED-CULTURE PRAWN FARMING WITH EM TECHNOLOGY®
The scope of this recommendations includes only soil and water improvement. Efforts are concentrated on bringing the pond ecosystem to its natural balance by improving the pond microflora. Cultural practices in prawn operations are not included here
Land Preparation
After harvesting prawns, scrape the mud to remove the prawn excreta apply lime, cultivate and crack dry the soil. Apply EM-1® Bokashi-Aqua at the rate of 350 kg./ha. after 7 days and spray 1,000 liters/ha. Activated EM-1® Solution and dry for 14 days..
Improvement of Water Quality
Allow water intake up to 1.5-1.8 m high and while doing this, seed Activated EM-1® Solution at 1,500 liters/ha. and leave for 7 days before seeding prawn fries. Activate aerators 4-5 hours daily until stocking of fries.
Improving Artemia Population
To improve the population density of Artemia, spread EM-1® Bokashi-Aqua at the rate of 200 kg./ha. 7 days before seeding fries.
Fry Input/Stocking
Input fries at a stocking density of 30-50 pieces per square meter (300,000-500,000 fries). They should be launched in the early morning or in the evening. Be sure to acclimatise the fries (especially with the water salinity and temperature), to avoid early mortality. Stop aerators while stocking.
Growing and Rearing
At 10 days after stocking (DAS), seed Activated EM-1® Solution at 1,500 liters/ha. every 7 days until they are 2 months old.
At 60 DAS seed Activated EM-1® Solution at 1,500 liters/ha. alternately with EM-5, at the rate of 50 liters per hectare. The frequency of application is every 5 days.
At 75 DAS, seed Activated EM-1® Solution at 1,500 liters/ha. every 3 days until harvesting.
During the growing and rearing stage, if change in the normal color of the water is observed, apply EM-1® Bokashi at 350 kgs./ha. using EM-1® Bokashi bags. Hang EM-1® Bokashi bags on strategic places in the pond.
Feed Preparation
Mix Activated EM-1® Solution at 1.5 liters per 10 kgs. of feeds. Leave the treated feeds for 4 hours before feeding. Feed 5 times a day. Stop aerators while feeding.
CAUTION: DO NOT GIVE EXCESS FEEDS. Decomposing feeds at the bottom of the pond will produce noxious gases that are very detrimental to the prawns. Even very low levels of H2S (0.1ppm) are toxic to prawns.
Tamarind and Garlic Extracts must be mixed to the feeds as Vitamin C supplements. (300 grms. and 200 gnns. Respectively for every 10 kgs. feeds.)
Water Monitoring
The pH of the water must be checked twice daily, morning and later afternoon. It should not be lower than 7.4. The difference in pH between morning and late afternoon should not be higher than 0.5. If ever, apply Activated EM-1® Solution at the rate of 1,500 liters per hectare.
If the color of the water becomes dark green, Apply EM-5 at the rate of 50 liters/ha. and wait for 4-5 days.
If the water drops to a very low level, apply 100 kgs./ha. of EM-1® Bokashi Aqua. It must be broadcasted on the pond evenly.
The salinity of the pond water must not be lower than 5 ppt. P. Monodon grows well at 10-20 ppm. salinity.
Check ammonia and H2S level daily. Apply 3-4,000 liters/ha. Activated EM-1® Solution if ammonia level is high. This can be detected due to the black color of the soil and its characteristic foul odor.
Diseases
Disease outbreak may occur when the conditions in the pond becomes unfavorable to the prawns. It may be due to high levels of noxious gases, extreme temperatures, pH and/or salinity which will give pathogenic microorganisms a chance to infect. In which case Activated EM-1® Solution must be applied at 1,500 liters/ha. at the first sign of disorders.
Some protozoans and algae if present in sufficient amounts may inhibit molting. Apply EM-5 at 50 liters/ha. to induce molting.
In cases of presence of excess algae in the pond due to excessive feeding, aerators must be stopped at daytime and resumed at nighttime. Algae will then die and float. Remove them as soon as possible.
Recommendations
1. With the use of this technology, no chemicals such as lime, fertilizers, pesticides, etc. shall be used in the pond.
2. In cases of some problems related to growth and health conditions, increase seeding rate of Activated EM•1® Solution/EM-5 but not more than 3,000 liters per hectare.
3. Monitoring of pond water must be done daily. Sampling must be done regularly to .be able to compute the estimated feed consumption. Sampling must be done early in the morning or at nighttime.
4. It is recommended that there be no water change throughout the whole cycle to establish the population of the Effective Microorganisms® in the pond. Water change may be done only if it is the only and last resort.
Expected Benefits from EM Technology®
With the use of EM Technology® in prawn farming, healthy, clean and good uniformity of the harvest are expected. The consumers are supplied with prawns free from chemical residues. The prawns have longer shelf life also.
The incidence of diseases also decreases. As the population of the Effective Microorganisms® in the pond increases, the population of the pathogenic microorganisms decreases. The conditions in the pond becomes very conducive to the growth of the prawns. Stresses due to noxious gases are greatly reduced, thus the prawns are less prone to diseases.
At four months, the expected weight is 30 grams per prawn.
Since this is high density stocking, monitoring is highly intensified. All aspects of production must be checked and supervised closely. Any mistake could be detrimental to our purpose. However, the risks are lowered with EM Technology® incorporated in the system due to its efficiency in bringing balance in the pond ecosystem.
I. Projected Gross Sales/Crop/hectare
10,000 m2 x 30 fries/m2 = 300,000 fries x 0.80 survival = 240,000 prawns
240,000 prawns x 30 grns./prawn = 7,200,000 gms. = 7,200 kgs.
7,200 kgs. x P 450.00/kg. = P 3,240,000.00
II. EM-1® Products Consumption Per Hectare - Prawn Closed Culture
EM-1® A/S (1i) EM-1® Bokashi(kg.) EM-5 (li)
1. Pond preparation- 2,500 550
2. Growing/Rearing- 25,500 450
3. Feeds 3,060
31,060 550 450
Cost of EM-1® Products Crop hectare:
a) EM-1 : 155.3 li. x P 660.00/1i. = P 102,498.00
b) EM-Bokashi : 550 kgs. x P 42.001li = P 23,100.00
c) EM-5 : 450 li. x P 300.00/li. = P 135,000.00
P 260,598.00/crop/ha.
Average consumption per month:
P 260,598.00 = P 65,149.50/month
4 months
III. EM-1® Bokashi-Aqua
EM-1® Bokashi-Aqua is prepared using the following ingredients:
a.chicken manure – 40%
b. rice bran – 20%
c.charcoal – 10%
d.coco peat – 30%
Activated EM-1® Solution - l:1:20 EM-1®, molasses, and water respectively. Five liters of activated solution must be mixed with 25 kgs. of Bokashi materials. The moisture content is 30-320/0. age for one week or longer.
If the preparation is intended to be stored for a longer period of time,
Air Dry……in a shed for a maximum of 3 days, then
Sun dry……for I - 2 days.
For dry season, double up water volume (96 lit.), and apply double of solution for same weight of EM-1® Bokashi.
For use of different organic substances, please consult with sales consultant.