Revolutionizing Fish Farming in Dimapur with Biofloc Technology: Sustainable and High-Yield Aquaculture

Explore how Bio-floc technology is transforming fish farming in Dimapur, Nagaland. This guide delves into the benefits of Bio-floc systems, the step-by-step implementation process, and practical tips to achieve high yields sustainably with species like tilapia, Japanese koi, and catfish.

ORGANIC AGRO-LIVESTOCK FARMING

Dr. Emmanuel L Yanthan (MS OB-GYN)

5/4/20243 min read

silver and red fish on ice
silver and red fish on ice

Project Report: Implementation of Biofloc Technology (BFT) Based Fish Farming in Dimapur, Nagaland

Executive Summary

This report outlines the implementation of a Biofloc Technology (BFT) based fish farming system in Dimapur, Nagaland, aimed at producing 100 kg of fish per day. The project focuses on species such as tilapia, Japanese koi, and catfish, utilizing BFT to enhance productivity and sustainability. The report provides a detailed analysis of the feasibility, setup requirements, operational processes, and financials involved in the project.

Introduction

Biofloc technology (BFT) is an innovative and environmentally sustainable aquaculture technique that enhances water quality by balancing carbon and nitrogen in the system. This technology is particularly beneficial for high-density aquaculture in regions with limited water resources.

Project Location

  • Location: Dimapur, Nagaland

  • Area Requirements: Approximately 2,000 square meters for the initial setup.

Feasibility Study

  • Environmental Impact: Minimal, as BFT systems recycle waste and reduce the need for water exchange.

  • Social Impact: Provides local employment and boosts the local economy.

  • Economic Viability: High demand for fish like tilapia, Japanese koi, and catfish in local and regional markets.

Setup Requirements

  • Tanks: Circular tanks with a diameter of 5 meters each, capable of holding up to 10,000 liters of water.

  • Biofloc System: Aeration system, biofloc formation units, and real-time water quality monitoring systems.

  • Seed Stock: High-quality fingerlings of tilapia, Japanese koi, and catfish.

Operational Processes

  1. Water Preparation: Conditioning of water to promote beneficial microbial communities.

  2. Stocking Density: Approximately 300 kg of fingerlings per 10,000 liters of water.

  3. Feeding Regime: High protein feed with adjustments based on water quality and fish growth metrics.

  4. Monitoring: Daily monitoring of water parameters and fish health.

Expected Outcomes

  • Daily Production: 100 kg of market-size fish.

  • Growth Cycle: Approximately 6 months from fingerling to market size for tilapia and catfish, 12 months for Japanese koi.

  • Sustainability Metrics: Reduced water usage and waste generation.

Financial Overview (in INR)

  • Initial Investment:

    • Construction and setup of tanks: ₹5,00,000

    • Installation of biofloc system and water quality management: ₹3,00,000

    • Initial seed stock and feed for one cycle: ₹2,00,000

    • Total: ₹10,00,000

  • Operational Costs per Cycle (6 months):

    • Feed: ₹1,50,000

    • Labor: ₹50,000

    • Miscellaneous: ₹30,000

    • Total: ₹2,30,000

  • Revenue (per cycle):

    • Selling 18,000 kg of fish over 6 months (average 100 kg/day) at ₹200/kg: ₹36,00,000

  • Profit (per cycle):

    • Revenue: ₹36,00,000

    • Total Operational and Recurring Costs: ₹2,30,000

    • Profit per cycle: ₹33,70,000

Conclusion

The implementation of a BFT-based fish farming system in Dimapur, Nagaland, presents a lucrative and sustainable business opportunity. With an estimated profit of ₹33,70,000 per cycle, this project not only meets economic objectives but also contributes positively to local employment and environmental sustainability.

Recommendations

  • Conduct a pilot study to refine operational parameters and optimize fish health and growth.

  • Engage with local communities to ensure social integration and support.

  • Continuous training and development of staff to manage the BFT system effectively.

This project report serves as a comprehensive guide for stakeholders interested in investing in sustainable aquaculture practices using biofloc technology in Dimapur, Nagaland.

List of equipment or materials required to set up a Bio-floc system:

Equipment and materials that are essential for the effective functioning of the system. Here's a list to guide you:

Infrastructure

  • Tanks or Ponds: Circular or rectangular tanks, preferably made of concrete or high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

  • Shade Net: To cover the tanks and provide shade, protecting fish from predators and environmental factors.

Aeration Equipment
  • Air Blowers: To supply continuous aeration to the biofloc system.

  • Diffusers: Devices that evenly distribute air within the tanks.

  • Piping and Fittings: To connect the air blowers and diffusers effectively.

Water Quality Monitoring and Management
  • Water Testing Kits: To measure pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and dissolved oxygen levels.

  • Turbidity Meter: To measure water clarity and biofloc density.

  • Thermometer: To monitor water temperature.

Feeding Equipment
  • Automatic Feeders: To ensure consistent and timely feeding of the fish.

  • Feed Storage Bins: Airtight containers to store fish feed safely.

Biofloc Development
  • Probiotics and Microbes: To promote beneficial bacterial growth in the biofloc system.

  • Molasses or Carbon Source: Used to adjust the carbon-nitrogen ratio in the system.

Pumping and Filtration
  • Water Pumps: For water recirculation and movement.

  • Filters: To remove particulate matter and maintain water quality.

Support Infrastructure
  • Backup Power Supply: Inverters or generators to maintain continuous aeration during power outages.

  • Fish Handling Tools: Nets, buckets, and trays for fish transfer and sampling.

  • Health Monitoring Tools: Microscopes and other tools for fish disease detection.

Miscellaneous
  • Digital Scale: For weighing fish to monitor growth.
  • Safety Gear: Gloves, protective clothing, and first aid kits for safe farm operations.

These components will help you establish and manage a biofloc fish farming system efficiently, ensuring high productivity and sustainability.