Development of a Model for Intensive Fish Production Through Mechanization

Funded by: The BAS-USDA Endowment Fund | Phase: 5th (April 2023 – March 2026)

Lead Institution: Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU)

Principal Investigator: Prof. Dr. Abdullah-Al Mamun

Project Overview

Revolutionizing Pond Fish Farming- The Path to Sustainable Intensification

This project addresses a critical challenge in Bangladeshi aquaculture: how to intensify fish production sustainably and profitably. While many farmers use aerators, there is a lack of scientific guidance on the most efficient types, operating times, and energy sources. Our research aims to develop a complete, mechanized aquaculture model that is cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly, ultimately contributing to the nation’s food and nutritional security.

Our Core Objectives

  • Aerate Smarter: To identify the most efficient aeration systems (surface, bottom, or combined) for optimal fish growth and pond health.
  • Intensify Sustainably: To determine the ideal fish stocking density when combined with advanced aeration and bottom-cleaning techniques.
  • Power with Renewables: To integrate solar energy as a low-cost, reliable power source for aquaculture mechanization, making it viable in remote areas.
  • Demonstrate & Disseminate: To validate the developed model through on-farm trials and share the findings directly with farmers and entrepreneurs.

The BUEP Endowment: A Foundation for Food Security

This research is made possible by the BAS-USDA Endowment Program (BUEP), established under a joint science and technology agreement between the Governments of Bangladesh and the United States. The endowment supports applied research focused on solving problems of food security, aligning perfectly with our mission to create a more productive and resilient aquaculture sector.

Innovative Methodology in Action

Over three years, we are conducting a series of controlled experiments in our research ponds at NSTU:

Year 1: Aeration Efficiency: Comparing different aerators while monitoring water quality, fish growth, and economic returns.

Year 2: Eco-Intensification: Testing higher stocking densities using the best aerator, combined with geomembrane liners and bottom-cleaning systems.

Year 3: Renewable Energy Integration: Powering the optimal system with solar energy (both direct and battery-backed) to ensure sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

Global Collaboration for Local Impact

We are proud to collaborate with international experts to bring global knowledge to Bangladesh:

Professor David C. Little

University of Stirling, UK (Sustainable Aquaculture Systems)

Dr. Kamal Gosh

Langston University, USA (Aquaculture Economics & Intensification)

Expected Outcomes

Tools for a Brighter Future

By the end of this project, we will deliver:

  • A farmer-friendly guidebook (in Bengali) on aquaculture mechanization.
  • Evidence-based recommendations on aerator selection, operation timing, and stocking density.
  • A proven model for solar-powered, intensive fish farming.
  • Policy briefs and workshops to inform national strategies.
  • Publications in international peer-reviewed journals.

Project Activities and Engagement

Our work is not just confined to the research ponds. We actively engage with the community and stakeholders to ensure our findings have real-world impact.

Contact Information

For more information about this project, please contact:

Research Associate: Mithun Roy

BAS-USDA Endowment Programme | Phase: 5th (April 2023 – March 2026)

Email: mithunraybau@gmail.com

This project is supported by the BAS-USDA Endowment Fund, dedicated to achieving food security through scientific innovation.