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Zeolite is a natural or synthetic microporous mineral used in aquaculture biofiltration to improve water quality in ponds, tanks, and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Thanks to its crystalline, honeycomb-like structure, it provides:
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a high ion exchange capacity, useful for retaining ammonium (NH₄⁺),
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and a large surface area for the growth of nitrifying bacteria, essential for breaking down nitrogenous waste.
Zeolite biofiltration
Zeolite is a natural or synthetic microporous mineral used in aquaculture biofiltration to improve water quality in ponds, tanks, and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Thanks to its crystalline, honeycomb-like structure, it provides:
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a high ion exchange capacity, useful for retaining ammonium (NH₄⁺),
-
and a large surface area for the growth of nitrifying bacteria, essential for breaking down nitrogenous waste.
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Tax included
Properties and Characteristics
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Composition: aluminum-silicate with sodium/potassium (varies by type).
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Form: granules or beads, typically 1–5 mm in diameter.
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Density: ~0.7–1.2 g/cm³.
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Surface area: 50–800 m²/g depending on type and granularity.
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Stable pH and chemically inert in water.
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Durability: long-lasting, resistant to crushing and abrasion.
Function in Biofiltration
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Removal of ammonium and ammonia (NH₄⁺ / NH₃)
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Zeolite exchanges ammonium ions with sodium or potassium ions, reducing toxicity for fish.
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Biological support for nitrifying bacteria
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Nitrifiers (Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter) attach to the porous surface, converting ammonium into nitrites and then nitrates (nitrification process).
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Water stabilization
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Reduces nitrogen peaks, improves water quality, and decreases odor.
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Advantages
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High ammonium retention capacity.
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Ideal support for biofiltration due to its large surface area.
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Non-toxic and chemically stable, does not alter water pH.
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Reusable after rinsing or regeneration.
Disadvantages
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Can become saturated quickly with NH₄⁺ if flow or nitrogen load is high.
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Requires periodic replacement or regeneration.
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Less effective for other organic pollutants (needs combination with mechanical or biological filters).
Applications in Aquaculture
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Filtration of freshwater or marine fish tanks (tilapia, trout, carp, salmon).
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RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture Systems).
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Pre-treatment of effluents to reduce ammoniacal nitrogen before discharge or water reuse.
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Combined with fluidized bed biofilters or drum filters for complete treatment
