A Laboratory Investigation of the Effect of Inflow System Configuration on the Hydraulic Performance of Octagonal Fish Ponds

Articles in Press

Document Type : scientific research article

Authors

1 Department of Water Engineering, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.

2 MS. C. student, Department of Water Engineering, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.

3 Department of Civil Engineering, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman

Abstract

Modern aquaculture faces fundamental challenges in the efficient distribution of feed and the management of solid waste, both of which directly impact water quality and fish health. Moreover, inadequate pond hydrodynamics result in low hydraulic efficiency, the formation of dead zones, and flow short-circuiting, all of which disrupt the distribution of oxygen and nutrients. Octagonal ponds have been recognized as effective solutions for optimizing high-density fish culture due to their favorable mixing characteristics and self-cleaning capabilities.
This study employed laboratory-scale modeling to investigate the influence of submerged inlet configurations on hydraulic efficiency and feed residence time distribution in octagonal ponds. Five different inlet configurations (β1 to β5), representing uniform and non-uniform flow velocity distributions at various depths, were examined. Results indicated that β1, characterized by the lowest inlet velocity, and β4, with a decreasing velocity profile, exhibited poor to moderate hydraulic efficiencies (below 50%). Configuration β2 demonstrated moderate efficiency (approximately 60%). Configurations β3 and β5 achieved high efficiencies of 85% and 75%, respectively, suggesting a significant reduction in dead zones. Additionally, β3 and β5 showed the lowest feed residue levels, underscoring their effectiveness in managing feed residence time.
These findings offer practical insights for optimizing inlet system design, ultimately enhancing the productivity and sustainability of aquaculture operations

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Journal of Utilization and Cultivation of Aquatics

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 06 June 2026

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