Oxygen demand in a farm is driven mainly by biomass, feeding intensity, temperature and species. Fish and the biofilter compete for the same oxygen — especially after peak feeding. Too-low DO causes stress, poorer FCR and in the worst case mortality.
What increases oxygen demand?
- Higher temperature (faster metabolism).
- Higher feed load and FCR-related waste production.
- Higher density and activity (grading, transport).
- Biofilter and other microbial processes.
Concept models often use rules of thumb in kg O₂ per kg feed. Real design needs species, temperature, saturation and system hydraulics. See dissolved oxygen and oxygen cones.
See also