Implications of the use of chemical oxygenating agents on water quality in shrimp farming systems

Abstract

Hypoxia is one of the main factors that deteriorate water quality in shrimp farming systems because it compromises organism metabolism, alters the chemical balance of the medium, and increases the risk of productive losses. The objective of this study was to analyze the implications of using sodium percarbonate (SPC) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) on dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature in shrimp pond water subjected to controlled hypoxia. An experimental trial was conducted under a completely randomized design with seven treatments and three replicates: one control, three SPC doses (24, 26, and 28 mg/L), and three H₂O₂ doses (20, 22, and 24 mg/L). Variables were recorded for 180 minutes after application. The results showed a dose-dependent response. For SPC, the 24 mg/L dose exhibited the best relative performance for dissolved oxygen, whereas higher doses progressively increased water pH. For H₂O₂, the 22 mg/L dose produced the most stable recovery of dissolved oxygen and the lowest pH variation. Temperature did not show relevant changes among treatments. It is concluded that both agents can be used as complementary tools during punctual hypoxia events; however, their technical suitability depends on precise dosing and simultaneous monitoring of dissolved oxygen and water chemical balance to prevent counterproductive effects on overall water quality. These findings provide practical criteria for selecting oxygenating products to support emergency management in shrimp systems. In practical terms, the study supports decision-making for short-term interventions, but not the replacement of routine aeration, preventive management, or continuous control of environmental variables in production ponds.

Keywords: Sodium Percarbonate, Hydrogen Peroxide, Dissolved Oxygen, Water Quality, Shrimp Ponds, Hypoxia.