Sludge And Odor Eliminator For Aquaculture and Waste

Transcription

1 Sludge And Odor Eliminator For Aquaculture and Waste

2 PROCULTURE TM SLUDGE & ODOR ELIMINATOR WHAT IS PROCULTURE? PROCULTURE is a blend of live heterotrophic bacteria and enzymes specifically formulated for handling high nutrient loads for efficient pond management and ease of maintenance. It is a blend of specially selected strains of naturally occurring, environmentally friendly, bacteria that produce large quantities of hydrolytic enzymes capable of liquefying and digesting simple and complex proteins, fats, oils, cellulose, and starch. The bacteria are harvested with their enzyme saturated growth media and dried. When dissolved, the bacteria quickly emerge from their spore capsules and begin feeding on organic sludge. Whether it is pond, aquaculture, or the harsh conditions of waste water, the efficiency and performance of PROCULTURE is matched by none. PROCULTURE has excellent applications for use in pond restoration, high-density ponds and raceways, and closed systems found in aquaculture and waste water. It will degrade organic debris accumulation in bio-filters and sand or gravel filters that may clog the filter media to produce toxic anaerobic zones. PROCULTURE decreases channeling; and, increases efficiency and outflow pressure. PROCULTURE Bacteria are classified as facultative anaerobic heterotrophs. They will work in both the presence and absence of oxygen and require organic carbon. The introduction of billions of these bacteria into a pond or lake will enhance, or augment, the existing microbial populations for improved efficiency in degrading wastes. This process is called bioaugmentation. PROCULTURE is very stable and has a long shelf life. The bacteria are 100 percent nontoxic, non-pathogenic, and feed on decomposing organic matter (sludge). PROCULTURE is non-corrosive and easy to handle. These bacteria pose no health hazards to humans, fish, pets, plants, waterfowl, or any other type of wildlife. PROCULTURE IS NOT AN ALGICIDE AND DOES NOT KILL ALGAE. No permits or applicator s licenses are required to use PROCULTURE. The bacteria in PROCULTURE are recognized by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and listed in the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). No registration with the EPA is required because PROCULTURE is not an algicide and is not regulated under the Federal Insecticides, Fungicides, and Rodenticides Act (FIFRA). 1

3 PROCULTURE AQUACULTURE FORMULA POND SLUDGE & ODOR ELIMINATOR A Safe BIOLOGICAL, Not Chemical, Approach To Water Treatment Easy, No Mess, No Fuss, 1-Step Maintenance Biodegrades Organic Sludge At An Accelerated Rate Rapidly Eliminates Foul Odors Caused By Anaerobic Bacteria Biologically Controls Suspended Organic Particles Reduces or Eliminates Geosmin: Off-Flavor Problems In Food Fish Reduces Surface Foaming Caused By Nocardia Biodegrades Targeted Toxic Organic Compounds Biologically Assists Nitrification Reduces Total Suspended Solids; Clarifies Water For Improved Water Quality Reduces Biochemical Oxygen Demand; Improves Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations Improves Flow Rates Through Recirculating Filter Systems 100 % Non-toxic, Non-Pathogenic Organisms; Contains No Salmonella Or E. Coli Bacteria Environmentally Safe: No Permits Or Licenses Required Effective In Freshwater, Brackish, And Marine Applications Reduces Maintenance And Maintenance Costs Acts as a natural Probiotic through the principle of competitive exclusion Improves Feed Conversion and growth 2

4 THE PROBLEMS Aquaculture facilities are primarily concerned with lowering organic wastes and nutrient levels. Sources for this organic matter are contributed by animal feeds, fish wastes and decomposing plants and algae. Ammonia is produced from the decomposition (through mineralization) of these wastes as well as by direct excretion from the fish. Build-ups of organic waste increase concentrations of dissolved organic compounds (DOC), increase biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), decrease dissolved oxygen (DO) levels, and increase stress on fish through decreased water quality. Nitrifying bacteria, such as Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter species, are relied upon to oxidize poisonous ammonia and nitrites into relatively harmless nitrate. These are autotrophic bacteria that utilize carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), and not organic carbon, as their carbon source. Nitrosomonas derives it s energy from the oxidation of ammonia (NH 3 ) to nitrites (NO 2 ) and Nitrobacter by oxidizing nitrites (NO 2 ) to nitrate (NO 3 ). They are critical components of the nitrogen cycle. High nitrates and phosphates (from organic decomposition), are the primary limiting nutrients for algae growth (plus light, of course). DOC is produced primarily by the decomposition of fish wastes and excess feed, and, through the decay of plants and algae. Phenolic compounds, generically referred to as phenols, are a very toxic component of DOC. Produced directly by algae and by the decomposition of animal wastes, they can cause stress in aquatic animals in very low concentrations. They are poisonous in higher concentrations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a maximum concentration of 0.1 ppm as being safe for aquatic life. The accumulation of pollutants is largely responsible for the development of Geosmin (offflavor) in food fishes. Excess levels of phosphates and nitrates promote unicellular algae growth (the cause of green water ) and the proliferation of algal mats (surface pond scum). This process of massive algal blooms due to nutrient overload is called eutrophication. The end result is often a green, foul-smelling, organic soup. Summer algal blooms, in conjunction with warmer water temperatures, are primarily responsible for sudden massive fish kills. Common treatment practices require the use of any number of chemical algicides. These products kill algae quickly but are not a permanent solution. They, in fact, actually contribute to future algal blooms. As the dead algae decompose, their cells release large levels of nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients back into the water for use by future generations of algae. These same toxic chemicals, as well as others from outside sources, inhibit or destroy the natural populations of beneficial bacteria. These bacteria are necessary to balance the aquatic ecosystem as they interact within the nitrogen cycle. Organic material is deposited on the pond bottom to decay, forming an organic sludge. This sludge consists of proteins, fats, starches, and cellulose that cannot be utilized by nitrifying bacteria. As the sludge deposits accumulate, anaerobic bacteria proliferate within its depths. These bacteria typically produce hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) gas (rotten egg smell) or methane gas (CH 4 ). These gasses produce the odors most associated with stagnant, or eutrophic, ponds. Many bacteria produce long-chain polymers which increase the water holding ability of solids. This results in increased sludge volume and reduced settling rate of solids. This also increases viscosity and is one of the causes of surface foaming. Another is caused by a microorganism known as Nocardia (Actinomycetes nocardia) which produces a biosurfactant that creates heavy foaming. Commercial defoamers are ineffective against Nocardia foaming. 3

5 THE PROCULTURE SOLUTION PROCULTURE incorporates specialized strains of bacteria that produce enzymes which digest (biodegrade) organic sludge at an accelerated rate. In conjunction with nitrifying bacteria, sludge is completely degraded; ultimately leaving only water, carbon dioxide, and a small amount of non-biodegradable material as the end products. Other strains of bacteria were selected for their ability to degrade hydrocarbons (petroleum products), animal fats, phenols, and other specially targeted toxic organic compounds. By eliminating most of the organic pollutants, and controlling undesirable suspended particle growth in the pond, PROCULTURE helps to control or even eliminate Geosmin (off-flavor) in food fishes. PROCULTURE increases the efficiency of biofilters. It will degrade organic debris accumulation in bio-filters and sand or gravel filters that may clog the filter media to produce toxic anaerobic zones. PROCULTURE decreases channeling and, increases efficiency and outflow pressure. PROCULTURE reduces or eliminates surface foaming. Special enzymes break the long chain polymers thus reducing sludge volume and increasing the settling rate. These enzymes also digest the surfactant produced by Nocardia and reduce surface foaming. PROCULTURE provides an additional benefit to pond management while it is degrading organic sludge. During their growth phase, heterotrophic bacteria utilize large amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus; the same elements needed by suspended organic particles. Since these bacteria grow and reproduce more rapidly than suspended organic particles they are able to out-compete them for these nutrients. Typically, within two weeks of application, suspended organic particles turn brown and are consumed by PROCULTURE. The brown color is actually caused by an abundance of active, hungry bacteria. This is normal and shows that PROCULTURE is working. As the availability of nutrients diminishes, these water-borne bacteria will disappear and water clarity will improve significantly. In order for PROCULTURE to maintain its effectiveness, it is extremely important that the recommended maintenance doses be applied after the initial treatment. A safe biological, instead of chemical, method of suspended particle control is now in place. A minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration of 2.0 ppm (mg/l) is required for PROCULTURE to be effective. Optimal activity and effectiveness are observed when the DO is saturated and water temperature is above 76 F (24 C). Fastest results are obtained in aerated ponds. Growth rate is reduced 50% for each 18 F (10 C) decrease in temperature. 4

6 PROCULTURE TM ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS Effective ph Range is Optimum ph is around 7.5 Effective Temperature Range is F ( C) Optimum Temperature Range is F ( C) Maximum Growth is at F ( C) Growth is Reduced by 50% at 68 F (20.0 C) Growth is Reduced by 75% at 50 F (10.0 C) No Growth Will Occur Below 40 F (4.4 C) Minimum Dissolved Oxygen (DO) Level is 2.0 ppm for effective aerobic activity Copper Levels Must Be Below 0.05 ppm Double recommended dosage if water temperature is 68 F (20 C) or less. Double recommended dosage for use in saline waters (salinity >8 parts per thousand). PROCULTURE IS A LIVE BACTERIA PRODUCT. DO NOT USE WITH MEDICATIONS OR ANY COPPER BASED ALGICIDES. 5

7 PROCULTURE CHARACTERISTICS BIOLOGICAL CONTAINS: Protein Digesting Bacteria Starch Digesting Bacteria Fat Digesting Bacteria Cellulose Digesting Bacteria Hydrocarbons (Optimum Conditions) BACTERIA COUNT: Minimum Aerobic billion/gram Minimum Anaerobic million/gram PHYSICAL Appearance... Free flowing, light colored powder Odor... Earthy ph... Neutral Optimum ph Range Optimum Temperature Range F ( C) APPLICATION RATES and DOSAGE Backyard Pond / Ornamental / Recreational: 1 lb per 1,200,000 L once per month Heavy Aquaculture / Industrial: 2 lb per 1,200,000 L once every two weeks (In case of extreme circumstances such as substantial influx of organic load and / or odor, double or triple dosage until symptoms subside) STORAGE and HANDLING Storage... Handling... Store in a cool, dry place Avoid excessive inhalation. Wash hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water after handling. 6

8 IMPORTANT NOTES Discontinue use of ultraviolet sterilizers, foam fractionators (protein skimmers), and ozone generators for a minimum period of four days after each introduction of PROCULTURE. Do not add PROCULTURE to any pond or system if antibiotics or anti-bacterial compounds are in use or if total copper concentration exceeds 0.05 ppm. Double recommended dosage if water temperature is 68 F (20 C) or less. Application of PROCULTURE will increase BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) for 2-3 days after treatment with a resulting decrease in DO. After this period BOD decreases and DO increases significantly. If fish are present in an un-aerated pond, care must be taken to avoid overdosing. Monitor DO levels during this period. Increased aeration or water flow or decreased feeding will help to maintain proper DO levels. For reduction of suspended solids and bottom sludge degradation, the initial application dosage may be safely doubled or tripled to produce faster results. However, if fish are present, the pond must be aerated. Follow-up doses can be applied as directed. In ponds with an initial heavy algae growth, optimum results will be obtained if the pond is first dredged with a net to remove excess algae or treated with a non-copper algicide to kill existing algae. This action will release the nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients bound up within the alga cells. Immediate application of a double dose of PROCULTURE will introduce the quantities of bacteria necessary to quickly utilize these nutrients and control future alga blooms. Followup doses can be applied as directed. PROCULTURE is not an algicide and does not kill algae. It controls suspended particle growth by consuming the nitrate and phosphate nutrients at a faster rate than the suspended particles themselves. Bacteria may initially require a period of time to adapt to environmental conditions. Temperature, ph, nutrient availability, salinity and other factors affect initial growth resulting in poor performance. This is called the lag phase in bacterial growth. Once the bacteria have adapted, they will enter a log growth phase and begin to process their food. RE-APPLICATION For effective control, PROCULTURE must be re-applied every other week as directed. Despite the rapid growth and reproduction rates of the bacteria a number of external factors affect their activity: Predatory Organisms. Many species of microscopic protozoans and rotifers feed on bacteria. As the number of bacteria increases so do the number of protozoans. The types and numbers of each species present are excellent indicators of the effectiveness of PROCULTURE. It is the presence of these microscopic animals that are primarily responsible for improving water clarity. Nutrient Availability. As the available food and nutrient sources diminish, so too will the number of bacteria decline. Bacteria die and release nutrients that are used by the remaining organisms for growth. This is the declining growth phase and endogenous phase of the bacterial growth cycle. Competition. Other microorganisms are competing with the bacteria for the same food sources. Extraction. Heavy rains and run-off influent will flush many bacteria downstream as part of the effluent and reduce the bacterial population. Environmental Changes. Changes in temperature, in particular, affect bacterial growth rates. 7

9 ADDITIONAL APPLICATIONS PROCULTURE also has excellent applications for use in aquatic recreation management and organic waste disposal systems. Regular use of PROCULTURE (G) greatly improves the aesthetics of ornamental and recreational ponds and lakes. PROCULTURE (S) is formulated for use in waste water treatment: septic tanks, leach fields, lagoons, etc. PRECAUTIONS: Handle with dry hands and avoid inhalation of dust. Repeated breathing of dust could cause allergic reactions in hypersensitive people. Open wounds can be infected. Wash skin with soap and water after handling. If ingested, drink water to dilute. Seek prompt medical attention. If spilled, sweep up and dispose of in proper container. Small amounts may be flushed to sewer. Dispose of outer bag in proper container. Dispose of waste in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Store in a cool, dry area. High humidity or moisture may cause premature activation and reduced viability of product. Freezing has no detrimental effects on this product. Chemotherapeutic agents containing copper are inhibitory and may be lethal to the bacteria in this product. Total copper concentration should be less than 0.05 ppm. 8