Treated Sewage in Fish Farming and Ecological Challenges

Year : 2025 | Volume : 02 | Issue : 01 | Page : 26 31
    By

    Sachin Chavan,

  • Amogha K R,

  • Mayur Tandel,

  • Sanjay Kumar,

  • Khoob Singh,

  • Akanksha,

  • Rohini Swamy,

  1. PhD Scholars, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
  2. Assistant Professor, Department of Aquaculture, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
  3. PhD Scholars, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
  4. PhD Scholars, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
  5. PhD Scholars, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
  6. PhD Scholars, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
  7. PhD Scholars, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India

Abstract

The use of treated sewage in fish farming presents a sustainable and cost-effective approach towards resource conservation and aquaculture productivity. Treated sewage is enriched with essential nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, which supports the growth of aquatic plants and phytoplankton. These are vital components of aquaculture ecosystems. This practice reduces freshwater dependency and mitigates waste disposal challenges as well as aligns with circular economy principles. Pilot projects in China and India demonstrate its potential for cultivating non-edible fish species and supplementary feed, reducing the strain on freshwater resources and lowering operational costs. However, integrating treated sewage into aquaculture poses significant challenges, including the risks of pathogen transmission, bioaccumulation of contaminants and nutrient overload. Pathogens in inadequately treated sewage can compromise fish health and public safety, necessitating advanced disinfection methods, such as UV treatment and ozonation. Bioaccumulation of pharmaceuticals and heavy metals in fish tissues raises concerns about long-term human and ecological health impacts, while endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect fish reproduction and growth. Nutrient overload can lead to eutrophication, hypoxia, and biodiversity loss, disrupting aquatic ecosystems and promoting invasive species. Mitigation strategies, including constructed wetlands and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), show promise in addressing these issues. Robust regulatory frameworks, stringent effluent quality monitoring, and technological advancements are critical for minimizing risks and maximizing benefits. Treated sewage offers a viable solution for sustainable aquaculture and balancing ecological conservation with the growing demand for fish. This approach underscores the potential for innovative resource management in achieving global food security and environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Sewage, fish farming, contaminants, ecological challenges, biodiversity impact

[This article belongs to International Journal of Marine Life ]

How to cite this article:
Sachin Chavan, Amogha K R, Mayur Tandel, Sanjay Kumar, Khoob Singh, Akanksha, Rohini Swamy. Treated Sewage in Fish Farming and Ecological Challenges. International Journal of Marine Life. 2025; 02(01):26-31.
How to cite this URL:
Sachin Chavan, Amogha K R, Mayur Tandel, Sanjay Kumar, Khoob Singh, Akanksha, Rohini Swamy. Treated Sewage in Fish Farming and Ecological Challenges. International Journal of Marine Life. 2025; 02(01):26-31. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijml/article=2025/view=202974


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 02
Issue 01
Received 23/11/2024
Accepted 13/02/2025
Published 07/03/2025
Publication Time 104 Days
348

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