Sep 25, 2025
Aerators vs Nanobubble Generators in Shrimp Farming
Healthy shrimp farming depends heavily on water quality, particularly dissolved oxygen (DO) levels and pathogen control. Poor oxygenation or high pathogen loads can stunt growth, reduce feed efficiency, and even cause mass mortality. Two technologies dominate water oxygenation in shrimp farms: traditional aerators and nanobubble generators. Understanding their differences is crucial for farm productivity.
Aerators in Shrimp Farming
Aerators have been a mainstay in shrimp ponds for decades. They are designed to mix water and introduce oxygen to support shrimp metabolism.
How They Work
Mechanical aerators: Paddlewheels or impellers churn the water, increasing oxygen exposure.
Diffused aerators: Compressed air is released through diffusers, producing bubbles that transfer oxygen as they rise to the surface.
Benefits
Proven technology: Simple, reliable, and widely used.
Large-scale coverage: Effective in deep ponds or extensive farm setups.
Cost-effective: Lower upfront investment than advanced systems.
Drawbacks
Low oxygen transfer efficiency: Large bubbles rise quickly and don’t dissolve fully.
Limited pathogen control: Aerators don’t significantly reduce harmful bacteria or algae.
Energy intensive: Mechanical mixing requires continuous power, especially in larger ponds.
Nanobubble Generators in Shrimp Farming
Nanobubble generators produce ultrafine bubbles under 200 nanometers, which behave very differently from regular bubbles.
How They Work
Nanobubbles remain suspended in water for weeks, continuously providing dissolved oxygen.
They can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that help reduce harmful bacteria, algae, and organic pollutants.
Can infuse other gases, like ozone for sterilization or CO₂ for pH control.
Benefits
High oxygen efficiency: Even small amounts of energy produce significant dissolved oxygen.
Pathogen and algae control: ROS improve water hygiene, reducing disease risks.
Stable water quality: Nanobubbles prevent oxygen fluctuations common in shrimp ponds, improving shrimp health.
Better feed conversion: Healthy, oxygen-rich water leads to improved growth rates.
Drawbacks
Higher upfront cost: Equipment is more expensive than traditional aerators.
Specialized maintenance: Consistent nanobubble generation requires proper handling and monitoring
Feature
Aerators
Nanobubble Generators
Oxygen transfer
Moderate
High and sustained
Bubble size
Large
Ultramicro (nanometers)
Pathogen control
Minimal
Significant via ROS
Energy use
Continuous, high
Efficient per unit oxygen
Water stability
Prone to fluctuations
Stable over time
Cost
Low upfront
Higher upfront but potentially lower operating costs
Impact on shrimp growth
Adequate
Often improved due to better DO and water hygiene
Which Should You Use?
Traditional aerators remain suitable for extensive ponds or farms on a tight budget, providing basic oxygenation and mixing. Nanobubble generators are ideal for high-density, intensive shrimp farming where water quality, pathogen control, and feed efficiency are critical. They can reduce mortality, enhance growth, and improve overall farm profitability.