Aquaponia: produção de alface (lactuca sativa var crispa) em diferentes densidades de estocagem de peixe

Abstract

Aquaponics is an integrated agro-aquaculture system (IAAS) that combines the cultivation of aquatic organisms with the cultivation of plants without soil, promoting sustainable food production. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different stocking densities of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) on the productivity of crisp lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. crispa) in NFT aquaponic systems. The experiment was conducted with four densities (200, 300, 400, 500 fish per 0.5 m3 tanks), in a completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 replicates. The physicochemical parameters of the water, zootechnical performance of the fish and productivity of the lettuce were monitored. The results indicated stability of the water quality parameters between the treatments. In terms of zootechnical performance, the survival rate was significantly lower in T500 (74.86%), while T200 and T300 presented better weight gain and feed conversion rates. Regarding lettuce, T300 stood out with greater plant height, leaf diameter and leaf area, although without significant differences in most parameters. The intermediate density provided a better balance between fish growth and nutrient supply to the plants. It is concluded that the density of 300 fish per tank presented the best integrated results, representing a viable alternative for sustainable aquaponic systems, promoting productivity without compromising animal health and welfare.