Medium and filter from activated carbon in aquaponics system (Oryza sativa and Oreochromis niloticus) to improve water quality

Abstract

In this study aquaponics system (Oryza sativa and Oreochromis niloticus) from activated carbon has been carried out. Activated carbon acts as absorbent, catalyst and filters in water purification, and is able to absorb anions, cations, and molecules of organic and inorganic compounds in the form of solution or gas. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of activated carbon thickness from organic waste on decreasing the toxicity of water in the aquaponics system. Water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH and ammonia content were measured at 20, 40 and 60 days after maintenance. The variation of treatments are P0 (as control), P1=1,5 cm activated carbon, P2=3 cm activated carbon, P3 = 4.5 cm activated carbon and P4=6 cm activated carbon. Based on the results of the study found that the use of activated carbon as medium and filter in an aquaponics system (rice-fish) can maintain water quality for 60 days of maintenance. The optimum water quality for the growth of fish and rice was in treatment P3 (4.5 cm thickness of activated carbon) and P4 (6 cm thickness of activated carbon). The thicker the activated carbon used, the more optimal the water quality.