Executive Summary & Key Technical Rules
- Maintain a Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) ratio of 15:1 or higher using organic carbon (molasses) to assimilate ammonia into edible microbial protein.
- Monitor settleable floc volume daily in a 1,000 mL Imhoff cone; keep between 15 and 25 mL/L for Litopenaeus vannamei.
- Continuous, uninterrupted aeration (minimum 28 HP/ha equivalent or 1.8 CFM/m²) is mandatory to keep flocs in suspension.
- Zero water exchange eliminates external viral vector contamination from tidal creeks.
1. Heterotrophic Ammonia Assimilation Principles
Biofloc Technology cultivates dense heterotrophic bacterial colonies that convert toxic ammonia directly into microbial single-cell protein when supplied with organic carbon, bypassing slow autotrophic nitrification.
2. The 15:1 Carbon-to-Nitrogen Math & Molasses Dosing
For every 1.0 kg of 35% protein feed administered, dose 0.6 kg of sugarcane molasses dissolved in pond water to keep the C:N ratio at 15:1.
3. Imhoff Cone Monitoring & Sludge Purging
Collect 1,000 mL tank water in an Imhoff cone and settle for 30 minutes. Maintain 15 to 25 mL/L floc volume; purge bottom central drains if floc exceeds 30 mL/L.
4. High-Density Tank Aeration & Blower Sizing
Install Roots blowers delivering 1.5 to 2.0 CFM per m² of tank floor through ceramic or EPDM bottom air diffusers to keep flocs continuously suspended.
Summary Standard Operational Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Biofloc reduce feed costs?
Biofloc particles contain 28-32% protein, vitamins, and minerals. Shrimp and fish graze continuously on suspended flocs, reducing pelleted feed requirements by 15-20%.