Professor Dr. Md. Yamin Hossain
Fisheries Department, University of Rajshahi.
Post-flood management of the fisheries sector is extremely important, as floods can cause extensive damage to fish ponds and waterbodies. Without proper measures, financial losses in fish farming and imbalance in the aquatic environment can occur. Below is a detailed discussion regarding various aspects of post-flood fisheries management:
1. Cleaning and Repairing Ponds and Waterbodies:
Floods may damage pond embankments and deposit soil, debris, mud, etc. in ponds. First, the pond embankments must be repaired to prevent future water leakage. Trash and mud must be removed from ponds and waterbodies, as well as any toxic substances accumulated at the bottom of the pond.
2. Testing Pond Water:
The quality of pond water may change due to flooding. It is essential to test whether the water is suitable for aquaculture by checking parameters such as pH, oxygen level, ammonia, nitrate, etc. If water quality is unsuitable, necessary chemicals or natural substances should be added to improve it for fish cultivation.
3. Prevention and Treatment of Fish Diseases:
The incidence of fish diseases may increase after a flood. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses brought in by floodwater can cause outbreaks. Regular monitoring of fish health is necessary, and antibiotics or essential medicines should be used if required. The appropriate use of lime and salt can also help in disease prevention.
4. Sourcing and Stocking New Fingerlings:
Many fish may escape or die as a result of floods. In such cases, it is necessary to source and restock new fingerlings. High-quality and fast-growing fingerlings should be released into the pond. Improved varieties can be collected from the local fisheries office.
5. Providing Adequate Feed in the Pond:
After a flood, the availability of fish feed in the pond may decrease, so appropriate feed must be supplied according to the needs of the fish. To ensure rapid growth and health, feed containing the right proportions of protein, vitamins, and minerals must be provided.
6. Oxygen Supply in Waterbodies:
The oxygen level in pond water may decrease after a flood. In this case, ensuring an adequate supply of oxygen to the pond water is extremely important. Mechanical aerators can be used to increase oxygen levels in the water.
7. Proper Irrigation and Drainage Systems:
If excess water remains in the pond, it must be managed accordingly. Excess water should be drained to establish an appropriate irrigation system. Channels or drainage systems can be constructed to ensure a steady flow of fresh water and maintain water stability in the pond.
8. Protection of Aquatic Plants and Environment:
Floods can disrupt the ecosystem of ponds or water bodies. Managing useful aquatic plants, such as water hyacinth, is essential to ensure proper breeding and health of fish. Additionally, to maintain balanced biodiversity in the water, the conservation of other aquatic organisms besides fish is also necessary.
9. Technical Support for Fish Farming:
The use of modern technology is important in restoring fish farming after floods. Technical assistance may be obtained from local fishery offices or research institutions. This will help farmers achieve better results and increase fish productivity.
10. Governmental and Non-Governmental Assistance:
After a flood, the government and various non-governmental organizations provide financial and technical support to fish farmers. To access these benefits, farmers should maintain communication with the local fisheries office and collect necessary information.
11. Fish Farming Insurance:
Insurance for fish farming can be a crucial step, helping farmers protect themselves against losses from floods or other natural disasters.
With proper management, it is possible to quickly restore fish farming after a flood, which will provide economic security to farmers and increase national fish production.
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