Author(s): Mude Krishna Naik, G Sujay Kumar and Motireddy Srinivasulu Reddy

Abstract:

The present study investigates the influence of probiotics and biofloc technology on the dynamics of phytoplankton and zooplankton communities in Litopenaeus vannamei culture systems over an 80-day experimental period. The trial was conducted using four treatment groups: T1 (Control - standard commercial diet), T2 (Basal diet supplemented with probiotics), T3 (Basal diet with bioflocs), and T4 (Basal diet supplemented with both probiotics and bioflocs). The aim was to assess the impact of these dietary and microbial interventions on the natural plankton productivity, which plays a critical role in nutrient cycling, water quality maintenance, and provision of live feed for shrimp, especially during early developmental stages.

Phytoplankton and zooplankton densities were quantified at five sampling intervals: Days 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80. The planktonic communities were identified and enumerated using standard taxonomic keys and microscopic techniques. Results demonstrated a marked increase in both phytoplankton and zooplankton abundance in all experimental treatments compared to the control, with the highest proliferation observed in T4. The application of probiotics improved nutrient assimilation and altered microbial communities, while biofloc systems enhanced microbial biomass and nitrogen recycling, together creating a synergistic effect on plankton development.

Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD test confirmed significant differences (p<0.05) in plankton densities among treatments and over time. The findings underscore the ecological and nutritional benefits of integrating probiotics and bioflocs into shrimp culture systems, promoting the development of a self-sustaining, nutrient-rich environment. This dual approach has the potential to reduce reliance on artificial feeds, improve culture water quality, and enhance shrimp growth performance through natural food web enrichment. This study highlights the potential of integrating probiotics and biofloc systems as a sustainable, cost-effective strategy for improving ecological balance and output efficiency in intensive shrimp aquaculture.

DOI: 10.22271/fish.2025.v13.i3d.3103

Pages: 311-320  |  91 Views  52 Downloads

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