An Applied Coupled Simulation-Optimization Model of Water Use Efficiency in Intensive Fish Culture Systems

摘要

A bioenergetics modeling approach is presented which links the quantitative effects of the biotic and abiotic dependencies of aquaculture systems operation which impact on the allowable growth rate of the fish. The reported computer-implemented mathematical model addresses one of the significant aquaculture systems management limitations, that of production forecasting. The model predicts allowable growth rates and systems production. The conceptual framework of the model is not only applicable to the fish species (rainbow trout) from which it was developed, but is applicable to all aquaculture systems. Considered are: water characteristics, pond design, nutrition, waste products, feeding rates, and fish growth and activity. Use of the model in aquaculture operations for production forecasting would enhance operational efficiency and profit.