The Effect of Ghost Shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus) Aquaponics on the Cultivation of Watercress (Nasturtium of icinale)

Abstract

Aquaponics is the integration of hydroponic plant production into recirculating fish aquaculture systems. In aquaponics, nutrients excreted from the fish are absorbed by the plants hydroponically. Ghost shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus) is a freshwater crustacean that is primarily clear in color. Ghost shrimp produce nutrients not only through their feces, but also through their burrows. Ghost shrimps are edible and are rich in fat, protein, and calcium. They also contain traces of vitamin B & E, magnesium, and antioxidants. Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is an excellent source of the antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as vitamin K. It is also a rich natural source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoid nutrients that are gaining attention for their ability to protect vision and support cardiovascular health. This experiment aims to test if various quantities (0 shrimp, 5 shrimps, 10 shrimps, 15 shrimps) of ghost shrimp would increase the quality and growth of watercress plants in an aquaponic system. Overall, the data illustrated that shrimp wastewater had a significant effect on the cultivation of watercress. Shrimp waste water significantly increased the fresh weight in watercress plants. In forthcoming works, the inclusion of more trials using larger numbers of ghost shrimp and extending the experiment for a longer period are possible methods to further research and find the best quantity of ghost shrimp that will be beneficial towards watercress growth.

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