ARS | Publication request: Impact of Copper Sulfate on Plankton in Channel Catfish Nursery Ponds

Submitted to: Journal of the World Aquaculture Society
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: November 30, 2007
Publication Date: February 1, 2009
Citation: Mischke, C.L., Wise, D.J., Zimba, P.V. 2009. Impact of Copper Sulfate on Plankton in Channel Catfish Nursery Ponds. Journal of the World Aquaculture Society. 40(1):122-128.

Interpretive Summary: Copper is used to control disease carrying animals in channel catfish production ponds. We assessed the effect that copper had on the algae and zooplankton in ponds. Treatment at both 3 and 6 mg/L killed all zooplankton, whereas the phytoplankton were stimulated by the lower copper dose. Low level copper treatment may be beneficial for initiating desirable algal blooms.

Technical Abstract: We conducted a series of studies examining the survival of plankton following copper sulfate treatment. Copper additions were made at 3 and 6 mg/L (Cu) had different impacts on the phytoplankton – lower levels stimulated algal growth relative to the higher dosages. Therapeutic use of copper may benefit fingerling pond management practices.