This book provides an in-depth and structured exposition of the Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System (ABAS), an innovative and sustainable approach to intensive aquaculture production. By integrating engineering design, microbial ecology, water quality management, and economic evaluation, the volume offers a holistic understanding of biofloc technology with a specific emphasis on airlift-driven systems. The content is designed to address the growing need for environmentally responsible, water-efficient, and economically viable aquaculture practices in the face of increasing global demand for aquatic food resources. The book systematically covers the theoretical foundations and operational principles of ABAS, explaining how airlift-induced vertical water circulation enhances biofloc suspension, prevents sludge accumulation, and promotes uniform distribution of oxygen and nutrients within culture units. These hydrodynamic features are presented alongside biological processes, particularly the role of microbial communities in nutrient recycling and waste assimilation, allowing readers to appreciate the integrated nature of system performance. A major strength of the book lies in its detailed treatment of biofloc formation, classification, and nutritional significance. By elucidating the physicochemical and biological characteristics of biofloc, the book highlights its dual function as a water treatment mechanism and a nutritionally valuable feed source. The roles of heterotrophic and autotrophic microorganisms in regulating nitrogenous wastes are discussed with clarity, supported by practical guidance on carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio management and carbon supplementation strategies. The book further emphasizes applied aspects of ABAS through comprehensive coverage of system design, operational requirements, and management practices. Step-by-step guidelines for system establishment, routine operation, and troubleshooting are included to support effective implementation at both small- and commercial-scale levels. Detailed water quality monitoring and management protocols ensure that readers are equipped to maintain system stability under intensive culture conditions. Economic feasibility and profitability are critically addressed through cost–benefit analyses and case studies, demonstrating the commercial potential of ABAS across diverse production contexts. The book also examines sustainability dimensions, highlighting reduced water exchange, improved resource use efficiency, and minimized environmental impacts as key advantages of airlift biofloc systems.Overall, this book serves as a comprehensive reference for students, researchers, aquaculture practitioners, policy-makers, and development professionals. It contributes valuable knowledge toward the advancement of sustainable aquaculture systems and offers practical insights for improving productivity, profitability, and environmental stewardship through airlift biofloc technology.
Dr. Debajit Sarma is currently serving as a Principal Scientist and Head, Division of Aquaculture at ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai. He possesses 27 years of extensive experience in research, teaching, and academic administration, having worked as an Assistant Professor, Senior Scientist, Principal Scientist, Head, and Director (Acting) in UGC and ICAR systems. He completed his B.F.Sc. from the College of Fisheries, Raha; M.F.Sc. from ICAR–CIFE, Mumbai; DBM from NMIMS, Mumbai; Ph.D. from Gauhati University; and D.Sc. from Commonwealth University. Dr. Sarma has received numerous prestigious awards, including the “Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi ICAR Award,” “Fellow of Academy of Environmental Biology,” “AEB Gold Medal,” “Fellow of Zoological Society of India,” “Fellow of Coldwater Fisheries Society of India,” “Dalela Oration Award,” “Eminent Scientist Award,” “IBRF Excellence Award,” “Scientist of the Year – 2017,” “VRP Sinha Award,” and “CFSI Honour,” recognizing his remarkable contributions to fisheries and aquaculture. For his distinguished collaborative work with various academic institutions, he received “Appreciation Awards” from Rajiv Gandhi University and Gauhati University. Additionally, he was honoured with “Certificates of Appreciation” from the Department of Fisheries, Government of Mizoram; Government of Sikkim; Government of Nagaland; Government of Jammu & Kashmir; Government of Himachal Pradesh; Assam Bhoreli Angling and Conservation Association; Jasingfaa Aqua-Tourism Centre; and Guamco Society for his significant contributions toward coldwater fisheries management and conservation. Dr. Sarma has standardized hatchery management and seed production technologies for golden (Tor putitora) and chocolate mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis). His notable achievements also include the rehabilitation, conservation, and eco-tourism based promotion of mahseer in various lotic and lentic ecosystems of Northeast India. Dr. Sarma also developed the technology ABAS-24 and received design patent (Design Patent No. 425955-001) along with his team. He has published 125 research papers in reputed national and international journals, along with over 200 technical articles, book chapters, manuals, and bulletins. He has authored or edited 12 books published by leading national and international publishers. He is also associated as an Editor/Editorial Board Member with several prominent journals, such as Scientific Reports, Journal of Applied Ichthyology, and Journal of Environmental Biology. Presently, he is a member of the DBT-TEC Committee, Government of India, and has served as an Independent Expert with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Dr. Sarma holds 3 patents and 1 copyright, developed 8 technologies, and commercialized 4 products through PPP mode. He has also discovered 2 new species. He has completed 20 research projects funded by various scientific organizations and developed several packages of practices benefiting diverse stakeholders. Over his career, he has supervised 1 National Post-Doctoral Fellow, 14 Ph.D. scholars, and 20 M.F.Sc./M.Sc. students. He has organized 18 national seminars and symposia as an Organizing Secretary and conducted 55 national HRD programmes as a Course Director/Coordinator, benefitting more than 11,000 fish farmers and state fisheries personnel. He has participated in several international seminars and training programmes in Korea, China, Spain, Malaysia, Bhutan, and Thailand. He is the Founder Secretary of the Coldwater Fisheries Society of India, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, and has served as its President. He has also served as the Vice-President of the Academy of Environmental Biology (AEB), Lucknow, and is a lifetime member of many professional bodies including CFSI, AEB, ZSI, Aaranyak, Assam Science Society, and Asian Fisheries Society.
Mr. Jakir Hussain is a Doctoral Research Scholar at the Aquaculture Division, ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), Mumbai, a premier national institute for fisheries education and research in India. He completed his post-graduate studies (M.F.Sc.) in aquaculture at the same institute as an ICAR–Junior Research Fellow (ICAR-JRF), reflecting strong academic merit and research excellence. During his post-graduate research, the author worked extensively on the development and evaluation of the Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System. His M.F.Sc. thesis focused on system design, operational efficiency, and performance assessment of airlift-based biofloc technology under intensive aquaculture conditions. This research resulted in the development of a novel and practical aquaculture system, for which a patent has been granted (Design Patent No. 425955-001). The technology has subsequently been commercialized, demonstrating its applicability and economic potential for field-level adoption (Partnered with Plastic Corporation, Vile Parle, Mumbai). In recognition of its scientific validity and practical relevance, the airlift biofloc technology developed by Mr. Hussain has also received certification from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR-FS-CIFE-2025-033). The author’s academic training, research contributions, and experience in technology development and commercialization position him as a knowledgeable contributor to the field of modern aquaculture. This book reflects his research-driven understanding of airlift biofloc systems and aims to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and practical implementation for students, researchers, aquaculture professionals, and progressive farmers.
1. Introduction to Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System (ABAS)..................1
2. Basic Principle of Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System .........................17
3. Basic Techniques and Requirements for Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System...............................................................................29
4. Classification of Biofloc Technology.....................................................39
5. Composition and Nutritional Value of Biofloc......................................49
6. Role of Microorganisms in ABAS (Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System)..............................................................................61
7. Candidate Species for ABAS (Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System)..............................................................................71
8. Nitrogen Dynamics and C:N Ratio Calculation ....................................81
9. Step-by-Step Guide for ABAS (Airlift Biofloc Aquaculture System)...................................................................................................89
10. Water Quality Management in Biofloc System.....................................97
11 . Economic Feasibility of Biofloc Technology......................................103
12. Case Study of Biofloc Based Aquaculture System..............................111
13. Sustainability and Future Prospects of Biofloc Technology................117
References............................................................................................123
