The project goal is to integrate a fixed-film bioclarifier with suspended growth "biofloc" technology to increase production capacity and improve reliability for small Midwest farmers producing marine shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in tanks. Research will focus on the determination of nitrification kinetics associated with an external aerated sludge basin, the confirmation of the maximum shrimp density that can be reared in a tank, and the design of an integrated (Hybrid) shrimp production system that will be cost effective and reliable for inland marine production. Mass balance models will be used to design the integration of the aerated sludge basin and PolyGeyser® filter into the tank, ensuring that adequate biofiltration and aeration technology is provided. Economic models estimating production levels and costs for the production module of approximately 6,200 lbs of shrimp per year ($100,000 gross income) are used to optimize the degree of technology integrations and sizing of components. The proposed design of the filter-in-tank ("FIT") will be fabricated and subject to triplicated inhouse shrimp production runs with external beta test sites. Water quality analysis of key parameters during a growout cycle will verify the modeling and economic modeling. Low-cost polyethylene components will be employed in the "PolyFIT" product line to lower the capital investment. Successful outcome will lower the price of tank-based shrimp production stimulating inland production. Related aquacultural industries, including baitfish, ornamental fish, marine fingerling, tilapia and aquaponics are also likely to be stimulated by the low-cost filter and tank designs.
