Ammonia Remediation and Water Quality Improvement in Shrimp Ponds Using Teak Leaf (Tectona grandis) Biochar

Abstract

The intensification of shrimp farming often leads to the accumulation of toxic ammonia (NH₃), which degrades water quality and threatens shrimp survival. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of teak leaf-based biochar (Tectona grandis) in reducing ammonia concentration and improving pond water quality. Teak leaf biochar was produced via pyrolysis at 300°C for 4 hours and was activated using H₃PO₄ and KOH. Characterization included SEM-EDX, FTIR, acid-base functional group analysis, and iodine adsorption capacity. Adsorption experiments were conducted using pond water samples with biochar doses of 20g/L (P1), 30g/L (P2), and 40g/L (P3), alongside a control (P0). Water quality parameters ammonia, BOD, COD, and pH were monitored on days 0, 3, 6, and 9. The biochar exhibited a porous structure, high carbon content (77.4%), and iodine adsorption capacity of 776mg/ g. Ammonia levels decreased significantly by day 6, with the highest reduction observed at 40g/ L (P3), followed by a slight increase on day 9 due to pore saturation and desorption. BOD and COD levels also declined until day 6, while pH remained relatively stable in biochar treatments. These findings confirm the biochar’s ability to reduce COD and to improve water quality. The ammonia removal mechanism involves physical adsorption, ion exchange, and functional group interactions. Overall, teak leaf biochar demonstrates strong potential as a sustainable adsorbent for ammonia remediation and water quality enhancement in shrimp aquaculture.

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