Effect of three productive stages of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) under hyper-intensive recirculation aquaculture system on the growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)

Abstract

In this research, the effect of different productive stages of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in a hyper-intensive aquaculture system on the growth of tomatoes was evaluated. Fish were cultivated in a final density of 80 kg m3 considering three development stages (an average of fingerling of 1.487 g, juvenile of 62 g, and adult of 203.75 g, respectively). The quality of water was measured by determining temperature, pH, electric conductivity, and dissolved oxygen. Biometric data were registered throughout the growth of fish and tomatoes. Results showed that the survival, growth, and health of fish are not affected by the hyper density of culture; as well as the quality water was maintained under acceptable conditions for the development of organisms. Besides, it was obtained that the early productive stages (fingerlings and juveniles) gave the best results for tomato growth. These results suggest using the wastewater from fingerlings and juveniles of a hyper intensive recirculation aquaculture system to produce hydroponic tomato; to achieve sustainable production systems with maximum use of the resources.