Impact of Unsustainable Aquaculture Practices on Water Quality Parameters in Fish Pond Ecosystem in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, India

This study investigates the effects of unsustainable aquaculture practices on water quality, plankton diversity, and fish growth performance in the Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Monthly samples collected from three ponds over a period of six months (May to October, 2024) revealed notable seasonal variations in water parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), ammonia, pH, and transparency. Pathan Pond exhibited the highest water quality and productivity, while Bramhan Pond showed reduced DO levels due to local pollution and poor management. Phytoplankton communities were predominantly composed of Chlorophyceae, while zooplankton were primarily represented by Cladocera and Copepoda, with peak abundance observed in October. The findings emphasize the importance of adopting sustainable aquaculture practices and conducting regular water quality assessments to improve fish productivity and maintain ecological stability, offering valuable insights for enhancing sustainability and supporting local fish farmers.