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'''Aquaculture refers to the controlled cultivation of aquatic plants and animals; this technology sheet refers exclusively to the raising of fish while the following page on [[Floating Plant - Macrophyte - Pond|Floating Macrophytes]] addresses the cultivation of plants. Fish can be grown in ponds where they feed on algae and other organisms that grow in the nutrient-rich water. Through feeding, the nutrients from the wastewater are removed and the fish are eventually harvested for consumption.'''
The fish themselves do not dramatically improve the water quality, but because of their economic value they can offset the costs of operating a treatment facility. Under ideal operating conditions, up to 10,000kg/ha of fish can be harvested. If the fish are not acceptable for human consumption, they can be a valuable source of protein for other high-value carnivores (like shrimp) or converted into fishmeal for pigs and chickens.
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- Can provide a cheap, locally available protein source. <br> - Low to moderate capital cost; operating costs should be offset by production revenue. <br> - Potential for local job creation and income generation. <br> - Can be built and maintained with locally available materials. | con=
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===Adequacy===
A fish pond is only appropriate when there is a sufficient amount of land (or preexisting pond), a source of fresh water and a suitable climate. The water that is used to dilute the waste should not be too warm, and the ammonia levels should be kept low or negligible. Only fish that are tolerant of low dissolved oxygen levels should be chosen. They should not be carnivores and they should be tolerant to diseases and adverse environmental conditions. Different varieties of carp, milkfish and tilapia have been successful, but the specific choice will depend on local preference and suitability. This technology is only appropriate for warm or tropical climates with no freezing temperatures, and preferably with high rainfall and minimal evaporation.
===Health Aspects/Acceptance===
Where there is no other source of readily available protein, this technology may be embraced. The quality and condition of the fish will also influence local acceptance. There may be concern with contamination of the fish, especially during the harvesting, cleaning and preparation of the fish. If it is cooked well it should be safe, but it is advisable to move the fish to a clear-water pond for several weeks before they are harvested for consumption.
===Maintenance===
The fish need to be harvested when they reach an appropriate age/size. Sometimes after harvesting, the pond should be drained so that (a) it can be desludged and (b) it can be left to dry in the sun for 1 to 2 weeks to destroy any pathogens living on the bottom or sides of the pond.
===References===
* Cointreau, S., et al. (1987). [http://www.kit.nl/library/query.ashx?RecordID=108222 Aquaculture with treated wastewater: a status report on studies conducted in Lima, Perú]. Technical Note 3. UNDP/World Bank, Washington D.C. USA. 1987.
* Skillicorn, W., Journey, K. and Spira, P. (1993). [http://infohouse.p2ric.org/ref/09/08875.htm Duckweed aquaculture: A new aquatic farming system for developing countries]. World Bank, Washington, DC.
===Acknowledgements===
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