The Effect of Zeolite (Clinoptilolite) as a Feed Additive and Filter Material for Freshwater Aquariums

Abstract

Ammonia, which occurs as a natural result of aquaculture in production facilities, has a negative effect on the quality of aquaculture water and aquatic organisms. In this study, it was aimed to determine the effect of zeolite in fish feed and in water, which has the ability to adsorb ammonium, on ammonia removal. In the study, 12 different experimental groups were organized by creating 0, 2, and 10% ratios for fish feed (G1-G3), groups that zeolite only in water (G4, G5), and combinations (zeolite and/or in water/in feed) of 0, 7, and 20 g/L amounts to water (G6-G12). When NH3 and TAN data of G1-G3 were examined, it was determined that although there was no statistical difference, it decreased proportionally with the increase in the amount of zeolite in the feed. The difference between water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, NH3 and TAN values in G4 and G5 groups was found to be insignificant. The dissolved oxygen, pH, NH3 and TAN values between the groups (G6-G12) were statistically different. As a result, it was determined that 10% addition of zeolite into the feed decreased the TAN values by 37%, and the addition of 10% into the feed and 20 g/L into the water decreased the TAN values by 45%. When the results are evaluated from another point of view, considering the economy and ease of use, it is concluded that 2% zeolite in feed and/or 7 g/L in water can be recommended for aquatic species with high tolerance to ammonia values.