A Research On Photoperiod of Crops Grown in Raft-Aquaponics

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Sustainability and food security are challenges faced by third world countries for
the past several decades. The abundance of agricultural lands in the Philippines is no
question, however, the prices of products coming from agriculture are rising. This is
because the vast rich lands that have chances of agriculture is not utilized. There is too
much focus on economic development which leads to inflation. There is not enough
supply to meet the needs of the consumers of the Philippines.
In the Philippines, prime agricultural lands are located around the main urban and
high population density areas. The urbanization of towns and cities have caused a
decrease in agriculture lands. Urbanization has led the children of farmers to turn to
office or desk work instead of farming thus leading to a decreasing number of farmers.
The rise in pricing of agricultural products is due to economy, urbanization and
increase in demand. The search for alternatives of food production is a study people are
taking interest in. Food production alternatives such as eco farming, no tillage farming,
polyculture, and more. One of the alternative food productions is hydroponics.
There are environmental factors like drought and heat stress that influence crop
growth, development, and yield processes. Hydroponics reduces water consumption
which results to water preservation.
Hydroponics is the culture of plants in soilless water where nutrients for plants’
growth come entirely from a formulated fertilizer. This method gives the people an easy
and healthy way to grow food in one’s home. It allows food to be grown without soil and
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less water maintenance for the system will be able to provide the needs of the variables
involved.
On the other hand, Aquaculture, the breeding, rearing and harvesting of fish, algae
and other organisms in all types of water environment, have now expanded to small
independent home-based systems. Now this is where the aquaponics system is integrated.
It is the combination of both hydroponics and aquaculture in which water and other
nutrients are recirculated and reused.
For this study, a Raft aquaponics system will be used because the system
demonstrates effectively in water saving, nutrient conservation and fish and plant
production.
Many studies have investigated effects of photoperiod on organic acids,
chlorophyll content, flower induction, seed development and seed filling, and yield of
agricultural plants
In this study the researchers will be using 0 hr, 6 hr, 12 hr, and 24 hr photoperiod
with the same light intensity will be done using white fluorescent light. The growth of the
lettuce will be measured by centimeters. The dissolved oxygen and level of ammonia in
the water will be measured throughout the experiment. We will be using lettuce as our
plant because Lettuce is considered as a long-day plant which means it flowers and grows
during the longer days.
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1.1 Objectives of the Study
The main goal of the study was to discuss the effects of photoperiod on the
growth of the crop Lactuca sativa ( lettuce) and on the water quality.
Specifically, this study intends to:
1.1.1 identify which period of illumination (0 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours) is
best suitable for the plant (L. sativa) in terms of growth (height and number of
leaves);
1.1.2 determine whether the levels of ammonia and dissolved oxygen (DO) of the set-ups
are under safe levels in comparison to the standard aquaponics system (Sallenave,
2016; Hu, 2016).
1.2 Significance of the Study
The study will benefit the community, considering that raft aquaponics system
can be an alternative for growing crops either for self-consumption or economical
purpose especially in urban areas wherein minimal lands are available for cultivation.
The results of this study will help maximize water usage and electrical consumption in
the production of crops, specifically Lactuca sativa (lettuce), since a specific photoperiod
will be identified for its optimum growth. Aside from this, the raft-aquaponics also
lessens the susceptibility of pests and diseases. Plants are not grown in soil, making them
not prone to soil-borne bacterial diseases. Water in the aquaponics system is circulated.
No water will be wasted nor disposed after use. Since aquaponics recycles fish wastes
into fertilizers for the plants, this also purifies water.
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1.3 Scope and Limitations
The researchers mainly focused on the raft aquaponics systems consisting of
aquaculture and hydroponics for the growth and production of lettuce. The study was
concerned on the plant growth, shoot-length and number of leaves, with 0, 6, 12 and 24
hours photoperiod having equal light intensities and a twelve-hour interval feeding
frequency in a day (two times) for the goldfish (Carassius auratus). The water quality of
the system were determined by its level of Ammonia using Phenate colorimetric method,
and Dissolved Oxygen (DO) using Winkler method.
There were a total of four treatments given that there were three photoperiods
with one negative set up with no light. To obstruct light coming from any outside source,
black-painted plywood and black garbage bag was utilized in all the treated set ups. The
growth of the lettuce plant was checked every week, four times in one month, while the
level of ammonia and dissolved oxygen were checked during the first week and last week
of the experiment. In the study, the water needed to have the standard water temperature
of 10-30℃ for the fish to survive and a pH of 6.0-8.0. The study limits only to the
variables needed, the factors that affects the growth of both fish and plant, and the water
quality of the system (Dissolved Oxygen and Levels of Ammonia). Moreover, the study
only used the lettuce vegetable since it is a common crop consumed by people
everywhere.
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CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.1 Aquaponics and System Design
Aquaponic systems are known as recirculating aquaculture systems that integrate
the production of plants without the use of soil. This system was designed to produce not
only large number of plants but also fish. Raft aquaponics system, is one of the most
convenient design that consists of floating sheets of polystyrene and net pots to support
plant, provide enough biofiltration to large plant production area (Rakocy et. al., 2006).
Both solids removal and biofiltration into the water must be incorporated in this
recirculating system to achieve appropriate water quality for fish and plant (Harmon,
2001). A biofilter in raft aquaponics system is simply an area where the bacteria colonize
and allocates big surface areas (Nelson, 2008). In the aquaponic system, the hydroponic
sub system serves as the biofilter in the system since the wastes of the fish will be used
for the growth of the plant.. Nitrification removes fish wastes metabolites and directly
uptake by the plant, that treats the water, then flows back to the aquaculture sub system
for reuse (Rakocy et. al., 2006).
The integration of the raft system unto the aquaponics system, also known as deep
water culture system, was considered to be one of the long-established aquaponic
techniques that have been privileged into the industry. The raft system has a nature that is
great for tropical climates making it a great option to use for numerous people (Storey,
2016). The interest in aquaponics is growing since it can be applied in non-traditional
locations for agriculture in warehouses and on marginal lands that can supply products
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that are locally grown without the use of harmful chemicals or antibiotics (Love et. al.,
2015).
2.2 Species Specification
2.2.1 Goldfish
The goldfish (Carassius auratus) is a freshwater fish in the family Cyprinidae
(Britannica, 2019). It is one of the most common aquarium fish. Goldfish breeds may
differ in its body size and shape, fin design and color. Goldfish can produce a large
amount of waste (Larry, 2015). In a short period of time, the build-up of wastes can
become toxic and can be the cause of death to the goldfish.
The goldfish can be categorized as a cold-water fish. It can live in unheated
aquarium at a temperature that is comfortable for humans. However, when temperature
changes rapidly, this can kill them. Goldfishes are at risk to danger at temperatures under
10 °C (50 °F). Extremely high temperatures over 30 °C (86 °F) can harm goldfish (Davis,
2018).
Goldfish is of the recommended fish to use in aquaponics. They produce a large
amount of excretion that will provide sufficient nitrates for plants. There are basically
two kinds of goldfish that exist namely: twin-tailed and single-tailed varieties (Winter,
2018). Single-tailed goldfish have slender bodies but are hostile and fast swimmers while
the twin-tailed kinds have an egg-shaped body but are slow swimmers (Larry, 2015).
An example of a twin-tailed goldfish is the Oranda. Oranda have egg-shaped
bodies and claw-ended paired veiltail fin. They have a brain-like fleshy hood on top on
their heads called “wen”. Their wens start to appear around 3-4 months old and fully
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develops at the age of 2. As the fish grows, it will develop a fleshy outgrowths that
covers the fish head and gill cover. (Silivonik, 2018)
The pH survival range of goldfish is 6.0 to 8.0 based on the list experts have
made. The pH scale value of 6.0 is 100x less acidic than the water with a pH scale of 8.0
(Aqueon, 2017). This would include the range of water above and below seven, the
neutral point of the pH scale; this means that goldfish can endure water that is either
somewhat acidic or alkaline. The goldfish can survive beyond this range if the pH is
lowered or raised gradually (Boumis, 2018).
While a goldfish can survive a huge pH range, there may be a change in pH
indicating a separate problem. A dropping pH can indicate that something in the water is
rotting (uneaten fish food) producing ammonia. If pH is low, test for ammonia and nitrite
is a need. If the pH is high, no decorations should be found in the aquariums.
Water pH can change throughout the day creating an issue on the amount of
oxygen and carbon dioxide. Goldfish need well-oxygenated water (Sharpe, 2018). It is
best to counteract the buildup of carbon dioxide by adding water pumps or air stones to
the aquarium or pond. Water movement can improve the exchange of gases in water, and
adds up the amount of oxygen.
Male goldfishes have breeding tubercles on the covers of their gills and along the
edge of their pectoral fins. During spawning, male goldfishes are more aggressive than
females (Allen, 2018). Male gold fishes used for aquaponics must be of the same age
about two-three months old with the same size and weight. An equal ratio of fish and
plant is more likely to be used.
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Figure 2.1: Breeding tubercles of the male goldfish
Figure 2.2: Body shape between male and female goldfish
Goldfish can grow about six to eight inches long in a very short period of time.
When kept in small aquariums, growth becomes slower. A 10-gallon tank would be good
for two to four small goldfish (Lowell, 2018). A small aquarium would need more work,
frequent water changes and could stress out your goldfish (Crowe, 2012).
2.2.2 Lettuce
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is an annual plant of the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is
often used for salad. It is also seen in other kinds of food such as soups, sandwiches,
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wraps etc. Lettuce is one of the recommended leafy green vegetables to be used in
aquaponics since it can be easily grown (Nelson and Pade, 2010). It needs low
temperatures in order to prevent rapid flowering. Lettuce is a great source for vitamins A
and K (Whelan, 2017). Contaminated lettuces can often be the root of bacterial, viral, and
parasitic outbreaks in humans (Kline, 2008).
According to Tagle, Benoza, Pena and Oblea (2018), maintaining ideal growing
conditions of plants is key to producing high quality yields. The ideal growing condition
for lettuce are: 6500K color temperature for fluorescent lights in terms of lighting,
5.5–6.5 in terms of pH level, and 21.2°C to 26.6°C for temperature (Tagle et al., 2018).
At high temperatures, growth is hindered. The leaves may become bitter and the
seedstalk would elongate rapidly (University of Illinois Extension, 2018). There are two
entirely different ways to both plant and harvest lettuce. You can plant seeds directly into
a grow bed and into your growing medium or you can start in a seedling tray and
transplant them into a grow bed once it has sprouted.
Leaf lettuces can be cut when it is large enough to use. It reaches its maximum
size (6 to 12 ounces) in 28 days in an aquaponics system. Since lettuce has shallow roots,
cultivation must be done carefully. Light watering can cause rapid development of leaves,
resulting to a good-quality lettuce (University of Illinois Extension, 2018).
2.3 Photoperiod
Photoperiod is the response to changes in day length that enables plants to adapt
to seasonal changes in their environment (Thomas, 2017). All plants with chlorophyll in
their leaves require light to perform photosynthesis. Photosynthesis by definition is a
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process by which plants use sunlight to synthesize food from light, CO₂ and water.
Sunlight is one of the basic prerequisites of plant growth and survival. Sunlight caters to
the photosynthetic machinery present on the leaves of the plant which helps in production
of energy for the plant utilized by the plant in its growth and development.
Haferkamp (1988) stated that there isn’t enough light is received by the plants
during the day due to changes of weather conditions which prolongs the plant growth
Low light availability for instance, leads to reductions in biomass allocation to root
(RWR), relative growth rate (RGR) (Dale and Causton, 1992; Robinson and McCarthy,
1999)
Ruban (2017) published an article in Nature emphasising that the utilisation of
optimised light harvesting management should be a motivation for research of the
enhancement of crop growth performance and yield in the near future to avert shortages
in food supplies to the masses as the global population grows.
Jackson (2009) stated that the three main photoperiod response types are
short-day plants (SDP) in which the response is induced when the photoperiod is shorter
than the critical daylength (CDL), long-day plants (LDP) in which the response is
induced when the photoperiod exceeds the CDL and day-neutral plants (DNP) which do
not respond to photoperiod.
Liang (2015) found that crop production and water quality was favored by
increased light intensity and photoperiod. 24-h light resulted in 2.4% higher fish growth,
12% higher plant growth and lower accumulation of all nitrogen and phosphate species in
water than 12-h light. Park et al. ( 2012) found that the greatest plant height, fresh and dry
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weights were obtained in the 24/0 (Light/Dark) photoperiod. The 24/0 (Light/Dark)
photoperiod treatment promoted vegetative growth of the leaf area. Ikeda et al. (1987) At
longer photoperiods, the growth rate and the net photosynthetic rate per plant of lettuce
increased. Pierson et.al (1990) indicated that plant grown in full sunlight produced more
biomass, tillers and leaves, and allocated a larger surface area proportion of their total
production to roots than plants grown in shade.
2.4 T5 Lamps/ Tubes
Plants operate by making use of light which is their major source for energy.
Without light, the process of photosynthesis cannot commence. Light also serves as an
environmental signal, and respond to its direction, intensity, and wavelength. Adequate
amount and quality of light intensities regulate most major challenges of plants (Muneer
et al., 2014).
According to Ramsundar (2015), in aquaponics systems, it is a must for
cultivators to mimic sunlight by means of specified lights when planting indoors,
particularly in a suburban setting. Fluorescent T5 bulbs together with LEDs and
High-Intensity Discharge lights are some kinds of bulbs that help backs up plant growth
and development in an aquaponics set up. T5 bulbs can give plants their needed
fundamental wavelengths of light. They don't radiate much heat and don't use a great deal
of electricity.
Bernstein (2011)’s discussion agrees with (Rasmundar, 2015) because he also
explained that T5s are advantageous because they work for both fruiting and foliage
plants due to their broad plant lighting spectrum however, they will only reach through
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18 inches (45 cm) of plant canopy and also their performance downgrades after 6 months
even if they still look as bright as their first use.
T5 Grow Lights (n.d.) are described as a great option for indoor gardeners as
these lights produce high lumen/watt output. For instance, a t5 measuring four foot
utilizes 54 watts and bring about 5400 lumens of light. They are also very energy
efficient thus saving a big chunk from the operating costs budget. Aside from the
aforementioned advantages, this type of grow light emits a light temperature that is
comparable to the sun at 12 noon. In other words, this type of light is daylight-balanced.
According to Thorton (2014) T5 grow lights usually has 100 lumens per watt and have
evidences for successfully growing herbs, tomatoes, lettuces, flowers and the like.
According to Perry (n.d.) artificial lighting produced by indoor-installed bulbs
enable saplings to commence in spring, give supplementary light for natural daylight for
numerous plants, and to serve as the sole light contributor for low to medium light plants.
The three key factors to ponder on when choosing and supplying light for plants indoors
are: quality otherwise known as wavelength in the EM spectrum, quantity also referred to
as intensity, and its duration or how long it will last.
2.4.1. T5 Wavelength Quality
Perry (n.d.) also added that quality denotes the actual wavelengths that the lights
give off to the plants. For plants’ energy and growth, they make us of both the red and the
blue parts in the spectrum, thus indoor lights are compelled to provide them.
The measurement of wavelength of the light that is produced by a specific light
source is called the color spectrum (light quality). In artificial lighting, the color spectrum
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is measured in K (Kelvin). The main color quality of T5 bulbs are 3000K and 6400K.
However, the market also offers various brands that manufacture 2700K, 5000K ,4000K
and 6500K lights.
Figure 1: 600K spectrum Figure 2: 3000K spectrum
According to Midowo (2013), both graphics show two main T5 grow light setups.
The first one has the 6500K spectrum with a larger spike in the blue wavelength spectrum
as compared to the second one. However, the second one holds the Yellow-Red spectrum
spike that is a requirement for the flowering of any plants. Also, a green spike is present
at both t5 lights. However, the spike is completely useless since plants don’t use green
light. This is why we perceive them in green color.
Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) is what refers to the amount of light
used by plants within the 400-700-nanometer (nm) wavelength range (Brown, n.d.). And
according to Horticulture Source (n.d), photosynthesis reaches its peak at 435 nm and
680 nm. And a 6500K T5 lamp has a spectral distribution that with an intensity peaking
at 435 nm and 615 nm.
2.4.2 T5 Light Quantity
Perry (n.d.) also discussed in his article that the quantity of light just like it's type
and wattage is very important. Thus, it needs to be adjusted to suit the distance between
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the plant and the light source. Light quantity and light duration have an indirect
relationship because if light is set on a lower level, it's duration can be made up longer.
For plant seedlings grown indoors, they are recommended to be under a light source for
16-18 hours a day with a temperature of 65 to 75 degrees F. The same duration, or for
brighter light types, 12 to 14 hours, should be utilized if it is the only light source for low
to medium light plants. If one is making use of indoor light source merely to supplement
and assist natural light usually from windows or glass, a few hours would suffice at the
end of the day. It is advised not to keep lights on continuously because plants also need to
have ample periods of darkness accompanied by an ideal temperature of 55–65°F.
According to Thorton (2018), for its distance, light source must be placed 6 to 8 inches
away from the plant top. In horticulture, light is measured in either lux or joules per
square meter (J/m squared). A minimum of 500 lux is necessary for photosynthesis
(Brown 2008). A Klux is a 1000 lux and about 1.1 Klux is the minimum light
requirements for any plants for at least 12 hours per day to gain any benefit from
fertilization (Agricultural Solutions LCC 2019). Plants that would need a lower light
intensity must have a lighting of 1,000-2,000 lux for preferred growth. The 1,000 lux is
the typical overcast day/ midday intensity of light. One lux is just equal to one lumen per
square meter.
2.5 Water Quality Parameters
The efficiency and success of an aquaponics system majorly depends on how the
water quality is being managed. Water quality is simply the health of the water. The three
significant biological inhabitants of the system namely the plant, the fish and
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microorganisms are all dependent upon the water in the best condition it can be so they
are able to live in a desirable and conducive environment. The most essential
environmental parameters to be considered are nitrogenous waste, pH, alkalinity,
dissolved oxygen, temperature, carbon dioxide, and suspended solids (Timmons and
Ebeling 2007). And since these parameters affect each other, it is imperative to measure
and understand their interactions.
Organisms present in the aquaponics system require a sufficient amount of
oxygen in order to survive. The fish removes oxygen (dissolved oxygen) directly from
the water through their gills that is needed in their blood to perform metabolic processes.
The plants, likewise, take advantage of the DO in the water that are close to their roots.
The oxygen aids in the transport of nutrients across the roots to its internal parts. Most of
the bacterial microorganism in an aquaponics system are ‘aerobic’ which means they
require oxygen to thrive. Specifically, the nitrifying bacteria which converts potentially
toxic ammonia to non-toxic nitrates demand a good concentration of oxygen to perform
efficiently. Pumps and splashing of water increase oxygen availability. (Chilton, 2017).
Dissolved oxygen should be maintained at least 5 mg O2/L for warm water fish growth,
health, and feeding (Masser et al. 1999).
Nitrogen is essential to most organisms, but only in small amounts. Ammonia
(NH3–N), a form of nitrogen, derived from fish waste, fish urine, gill excretion, and
excess food can build up to toxic levels that is harmful for the fish. Thus, the ammonia
within the system is converted into nitrite by Nitrosomonas bacteria, before being
transformed into nitrate by Nitrobacter bacteria in a two-step process known as
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nitrification. The final product nitrate, which is less toxic, serves as the main nitrogen
source for plant growth in an aquaponics system. The bacteria, playing a big role in the
system, is allowed to grow and colonize in an initial set-up of any aquaponics called
cycling creating a biofilter. It was stated that NH3–N should stay below 0.05 mg/L and
Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN) below 1.0 mg/L (Timmons and Ebeling 2007). It is
recommended that TAN in aquaponics systems be maintained at less than 1 ppm.
The pH is also a critical and influential parameter to consider. The pH level of the
water must meet the living condition requirements of the inhabitants of the aquaponics
system in order to live and survive. The optimum pH range for most aquatic organisms is
between 6.5 and 9.0 (Timmons and Ebeling 2007). Too low or too high pH levels could
have detrimental effects on the fish. An increase in the pH level also increases the levels
of TAN and nitrite. (Dunwoody, 2013).
Water temperature ranges for all the organisms that live in the system must also
be closely monitored. Different species of fish require a different amount of temperature,
and so the temperature set rely on the type of fish utilized. (Chilton, 2017). However,
plant and microbial temperature requirement also has to be considered. Fluctuating
temperatures will affect the rate of biochemical reactions present in the system.
(Dunwoody, 2013).
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CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
The chapter presented the experimental design, preparation and assembly of
subsystems, monitoring of water quality, and statistical analysis used of data gathered.
The study will be conducted in a controlled environment. All raft aquaponics
system tanks were placed indoors which allowed only the T5 light to be the one giving
illumination. The research included four raft setups. There were 20 goldfish all in all with
five goldfish per set up. In the experiment, three setups had a 6-hour, 12-hour, and
24-hour illumination while the other one received zero illumination that served as the
negative treatment. After all the setups were prepared, the observation of the plant growth
was monitored as well as the water quality for each set-up.
3.1 IACUC Review of the use of animals in the study
Before the study had started, the researches undergone a IACUC (Institutional
Animal Care Use Committee) review. The researches submitted a hard copy of their
research proposal to IACUC. They reviewed and gave feedbacks, questions and
comments regarding the study. The researches answered to the feedbacks, questions and
comments of IACUC. After that, the researches were given an approval from IACUC to
proceed with the study.
3.2 Collection and Preparation of Subsystems
3.2.1 Preparation of Hydroponics Subsystem (grow bed)
For the hydroponics part, five lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seedlings were acquired
from previously sown seedlings in soil and each were equal in height, as well as age,
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before the start of the experiment period. The seedlings were carefully taken out from the
pot unto a container with water. Only the roots were allowed to immerse in the water to
remove the soil around them, after it, the seedlings were ready for transfer to the
aquaponics grow bed. Each seedling stem was wrapped with a thin layer of sponge and
stuffed unto the blue plastic ring, then fitted into one of the five evenly grilled holes in
the 1-inch thick polystyrene boards (which served as the raft floating on the water). In a
treatment, there were five seedlings each that had five evenly rounded holes. A part of the
stem (node) was submerged unto the water which allowed root initiation. The plastic
tank, which contained the entire raft system with the water, was grilled with two holes on
both sides enough for the hose and for water to flow from the fish tank to the grow bed
and back to the fish tank. All of this were done for the four treatments.
Figure 3: Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in Hydroponics Subsystem
3.2.2 Preparation of Aquaculture Subsystem (Fish Tank)
For the aquaculture part, the fish tank (plastic) was filled with 10 gallons of
freshwater and five goldfish were placed in it. Since female fish have maximum hormone
levels, the researchers acquired male goldfish for the entire experiment. An all-male fish
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is essential because they utilise the feed entirely for growth (James 2018). The fish were
three months old and each have the same size. They were fed 2 times a day using
Goldfish feed (floating food) with the ingredients of 45% Crude Protein, 6.0% Crude Fat,
5% Crude Fiber, 10.0% Moisture, 1.2% total Phosphorus and 14% Crude Ash. To keep
the water clean as possible, the goldfish were each given 3 granules of feed. The water
pump took the water from the fish tank into the water-filled grow bed. Consequently,
water from the grow bed flowed down the tube hose and through the filtration
component, as water returned to the fish tank once again. This recirculating system
maximizes the water in the system and maintained the quality of the water which is
important in the aquaculture and as well as to the growth of the plant (Rakocy 1999).
This was done on the four treatments as well.
Figure 4: Goldfish (Carassius auratus) in Aquaculture Sub system
3.2.3 Preparation of Aquaponics Treated Set-ups
A 136 x 40 x 152 cm of wooden frame/stand was built for the experiment. Two
setups shared a single stand which made two stands for four setups. The grow bed was
placed at a distance of 64 cm above the fish tank, which was found in the lower
compartment of the set-up.
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As the hydroponics and aquaponics systems run and stabilized, the 14-watts T5
fluorescent lamps/tube with a light quantity of around 1,000-1,100 lux (14 PPFD or
micromoles per meter squared per second) were setup from a distance of six (6) inches
away from the plant top. This was done on all treatments (6 h, 12 h, & 24 h) except for
the 0h photoperiod setup. Plywood painted with black separated the two setups in one
frame, and thick garbage bags were strapped on the sides of the framework of the
hydroponics part which obstructed light from other sources such as sunlight to pass
through.
Figure 5: Integration of hydroponic and aquaculture Sub systems
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Figure 5.1 Photoperiod set up without the black garbage bag
The first layer covering the plants consist of 2 rectangular boards that surround
the plants from the front and back. After the 1st layer of coverage, 2 layers of garbage
bags have been used to cover the plants as seen in figures 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 and 5.5
Figure 5.2 24 Hour Photoperiod Set Up
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In the 12 hour set up, an indication of when the light will be plugged in and
plugged off was placed.
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In the 6 hour set up, an indication of when the light will be plugged in and
plugged off was placed. On time was 7 a.m and off time was 1 p.m.
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3.3 Monitoring of Water Quality
A thermometer was used to measure the temperature of the aquaponics systems.
In this set up, temperature was maintained constant (at a range of 17-30 degree celsius).
Dissolved oxygen is the measure of oxygen percentage that is dissolved in a given
medium. The Winkler method was used to measure dissolved oxygen which is a
technique used to measure freshwater systems. This method used titration to determine
the dissolved oxygen of the water sample. The bottle for the sample was completely filled
with water then tightly sealed/closed so that no air can be introduced. The sample was
“fixed” by adding series of reagents that formed an acid compound that was then titrated
with a neutralizing compound that would result to a change in color.
The reagents used were Manganese sulfate, alkali-iodide-azide, concentrated
sulfuric acid, starch solution and thiosulfate. To begin, first a 300-mL stoppered bottle
was filled up with the water sample. Next, 2 mL of manganese sulfate was added to the
bottle by inserting a calibrated pipette below the surface of the liquid. Oxygen was
introduced to the sample when the reagent was being added above the surface of the
liquid. The pipette was squeezed slowly and there were no formation of bubbles. A 2mL
alkali-iodide-azide reagent was added in the same procedure. The sample was mixed by
inverting it several times (if bubbles start to appear, you will discard the sample and start
over again. If a brown-orange cloud of precipitate will appear if oxygen is present). When
the precipitate will settle at the bottom, the sample will be mixed by turning it
upside-down then settle again.
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Next, a 2 mL concentrated sulfuric acid was held above the surface of the sample
through a pipette. To this point, the sample was “fixed” and was stored up to 8 hours kept
in a cool place. A precaution, distilled water was squirted along the stopper. The bottle
was capped with aluminum foil and a rubber band throughout the storage period. In a
glass flask, 201 mL of the sample titrated with sodium thiosulfate to a pale straw. Titrate
was done by dropping titrant solution from a calibrated pipette then into the flask. The
sample water was continually stirred. A 2 mL of starch solution was added to form a blue
color. Slowly continued titrating until the sample became clear. Reaching the endpoint,
one drop of the titrant eliminated the blue color. Each drop was fully mixed then added
next into the sample. It will be helpful to hold up the flask to a white sheet of paper to see
if the blue color is absent. Dissolved oxygen concentration in the sample will be
equivalent to the number of milliliters of titrant used. 1 mg/L of dissolved oxygen will be
equal to each mL of sodium thiosulfate added (Washington State Department of Ecology,
2015).
Ammonia is as colorless, gaseous compound with a distinct odor that is highly
soluble in water. This will be tested through the Phenate Colorimetric method. The
reagents used are: ammonia-free water, Hypochlorous acid reagent, 0.003M manganous
sulfate solution, phenate reagent, stock ammonia solution and standard ammonia
solution.
In the treatment of sample, 10.00 ml sample was diluted to 10.00 ml into ampules.
A drop (0.05 ml) of MnSO4 solution

was added and was placed in a magnetic stirrer. A
0.05 ml of hypochlorous acid reagent was added and immediately a drop of 0.6 ml
25
phenate reagent was added using a bulb pipet. Stirred vigorously as each reagent was
being added. After 10 minutes, the absorbance at 630 nm was measured. The color
formation was stable for at least 24 hours.
In preparation of the calibration curve, a series of standards was prepared by
accurately pipetting the calculated volumes of standard ammonium solutions into 10 ml
ampules. The 10 ml standard solutions were carried through the entire procedure of
analysis of the sample. The μg N in the standard was plotted against the corresponding
absorbance values. For sample correction, carry a blank and a standard through the
procedure with each batch of sample. For control sample, 5 ml of the QC stock solution
was measured and diluted to 1000 ml. Take 10 of this solution and carry out color
development exactly as the sample.
3.4 Methods for Data Gathered (Statistical Analysis)
In a span of one month experiment period, the crop growth was measured every
week in terms of its shoot length and number of leaves. The data gathered for each set-up
were used for inferential statistics. Two-way ANOVA was performed with a confidence
level of 95%. Finally, to compare and identify the differences, the Post-Hoc analysis was
used.
Water quality results were presented in a bar graph for both the initial and final
measurements. Analysis were given after the two datas were compared.
26
CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter presents the data, which are analyzed and interpreted so as to
determine the effects of photoperiod on crop growth in terms of height and number of
leaves of the lettuce (Lactuca sativa), and water quality in term of dissolved oxygen and
levels of ammonia. It further presents which of the four photoperiod treatments is best
suited for the growth of the lettuce. And, it also presents whether the water quality of the
setups are under safe levels in comparison to the standard aquaponics system according
to Sallenave (2016) and Hu (2016).
I. Crop Growth
Table 4.1. Crop growth in terms of shoot length in mm (mean ± SD)

Photoperiod Week Number
1 2 3 4
0h 0 0 0 0
6h 29.98 ± 27.37 22.34 ± 30.59 11.64 ± 26.03 12.00 ± 26.83
12 h 51.94 ± 0.69 58.00 ± 3.19 48.56 ± 27.42 52.20 ± 31.37
24 h 66.44 ± 0.50 76.48 ± 0.53 89.46 ± 0.61 148.0 ± 12.52
Table 4.1 showed the mean shoot length of the lettuce and its interdependence on
the number of weeks and the photoperiod treatments given. In the 0h photoperiod, all the
crops have died as expected, knowing that a plant must have at least 500 lux light source
to perform photosynthesis (Brown 2008). In the 6h photoperiod, mean shoot length
across the weeks have decreased since there was an increasing number of dead crops
27
except in week 3 and 4 having both one plant left. In the 12h set-up, shoot length was
increasing and their measures were close to each other until week 3 when a plant died.
The rest of the plant remained until week 4 and grew significantly well. Lastly, in the 24h
set-up, no plant died and the result showed a consistent increase in shoot length across the
weeks with week 4 having the greatest increment. The results matched the study of Park
et al. (2012), who found that the greatest plant height were obtained in the 24/0
(Light/Dark) photoperiod. And it affirmed the study of Ikeda et al. (1987) stating that at
longer photoperiods, the growth rate per plant of lettuce increased.
Figure 4.2: Mean value and standard deviation (in parentheses) of shoot lengths in the
goldfish-lettuce aquaponics system under the effects of photoperiod during 4 sampling periods. Mean
values sharing a common letter are significant different.
Statistically, there is a significant difference across all photoperiods from 0h to 6h
and so on. And significant difference across the weeks was evident by the fourth week,
this would mean that a notable growth in shoot length was clear by the end of the
experiment period.
28
Table 4.2. Crop growth in terms of number of leaves (mean ± SD)
Photoperiod Week Number
1 2 3 4
0h 0 0 0 0
6h 1.4 ± 1.3 1.2 ± 1.6 0.8 ± 1.8 1 ± 2.2
12 h 3.2 ± 0.4 3.6 ± 0.5 3.6 ± 2.0 4.4 ± 2.5
24 h 3.8 ± 0.4 5.8 ± 0.8 7.6 ± 1.8 10.2 ± 5.3
Similar to the shoot length, the treatment of photoperiods across four weeks had a
direct effect on the number of leaves as shown in table 4.2. All plants died in the 0h
set-up. In the 6h set-up, the number of leaves decreased and by the fourth week only one
plant survived. Mean number of leaves for the 12h set-up had an increasing trend and
with one plant death by fourth week. And finally, the 24h set-up had the greatest number
of leaves among all set-ups with all plants having been able to survive. The result
coincided with the study of Pierson et al. (1990) which indicated that the plant grown in
full sunlight or closer to sunlight produced more biomass, leaves, etc. than plants grown
in shade.
29
Figure 4.2: Mean value and standard deviation (in parentheses) of the number of leaves in the
goldfish-lettuce aquaponics system under the effects of photoperiod during 4 sampling periods. Mean
values sharing a common letter are significant different.
Statistically, there is no significant difference in the number of leaves across
photoperiods 0h to 6h. However, from 6h to 12h and 12h to 24h, a significant difference
(p<0.05) was evident (p=4.09E-05) (p=1.32E-06). Across the weeks, week 1 to week 4
had a significant difference of p=0.0033, and a significant difference from week 2 to
week 4 of p=0.0380.
The tallest shoot length measured among the set-ups had a mean height of 148.0 ±
12.52 mm, while the highest number of leaves was counted 10.2 ± 5.3 pieces. Both of
which were taken from the 24h photoperiod by the end of the experiment period. These
results supported the study done by Liang (2015) who found out that crop production was
favored by increased photoperiod, 24h light resulted in 12% higher plant growth than 12
h light.
30
II. Water Quality
Figure 8: Water quality measurements in terms of ammonia
The figure above exemplifies the measures of ammonia done through Phenate
colorimetric method in all four treatments of the aquaponics system. The ammonia level
of the 12h and 24h photoperiod shown in figure 8 exceeded the ideal level during the first
week of the experiment, it was because filtration has not been improved yet. However, on
the last week of the water quality testing, the level of ammonia fit the ideal level
measurement because fish feed has been reduced and another layer of sponge was added
to the filter.
According to (Dinkel, 2006), ammonia level can be reduced by improving the
filtration system, changing partial water, cleaning trapped wastes in the filter and making
sure that the fish are not overfed. As presented in the figure above, the 12h and 24h
31
photoperiod measures had greater value than 1 ppm. At the final testing, the ammonia
for all four setups decreased to less than 1 ppm.
According to Timmons and Ebeling (2007), Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN) in
aquaponics system should be maintained less than 1 ppm to avoid toxicity in the system.
Fish can tolerate higher levels of ammonia if the water is cooler (Dinkel, 2006).
Therefore, having big ammonia at the beginning of the experiment is still considerable as
long as during the next days until the end of the experiment, the level of ammonia will be
lessen to its ideal level.
Figure 9: Water quality measurements in terms of dissolved oxygen
The table 2.2 exemplifies the measures of dissolved oxygen done through Winkler
method in all four treatments of the aquaponics system. The test was done at the
beginning (week 1) and at the end of the experiment (week 4).
32
As presented in the table above, dissolved oxygen for 0h, 6h, 12h, and 24h
photoperiod all had greater than 5 ppm. The mean amount of dissolved oxygen measured
for the all set-ups at week 1 is 6.76 ± 0.91 ppm. And for week 2, mean dissolved oxygen
is 7.31 ± 0.14 ppm. This indicates a slight increase in the amount of dissolved oxygen in
the set-ups from the beginning to the end of the experiment. A lower dissolved oxygen
was observed in the 24 h photoperiod setup at week 1. This might be because at just week
1, there was already a significant difference across photoperiods with the 24 h having the
tallest measure of shoot length. And this means the plants in the setup are more subjected
to intense root respiration and draw large amounts of oxygen from the surrounding water
(Rakocy et al. 1999). And by week 4, the dissolved oxygen might have increased back
due to a slight drop in temperature from a maximum of 27 degree celsius in week 1 and a
minimum of 24 degree celsius in week 4. Dissolved oxygen are strongly related to
temperature, the lower the temperature of the water, the more oxygen it can hold
(Sallenave 2016).
The measures of dissolved oxygen in all the set-ups have coincided and matched
Masser’s (1996) statement saying that dissolved concentration should be maintained at
least 5 ppm for optimum fish growth in most warm water systems. This means all the 4
treatments have maintained at least 5 ppm from the beginning to the end of the
experiment and have not degraded. Safe to say, the set-ups fit the standard of aquaponics
water quality in terms of dissolved oxygen.
33
CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS
In current situations, there is an increasing scarcity of water supply. As such,
people are challenged on how to cope with such problem and utilize resources. It is
therefore imperative to consider aquaponics system, specifically raft, as a possible
solution to the problem.
The study was to done to discuss the effects of photoperiod on the growth of
lettuce and the water quality through the growth of the crop in terms of shoot length and
number of leaves and water quality in terms of dissolved oxygen and levels of ammonia.
5.1 Conclusions
Based on the findings, the 24h photoperiod, powered by a 14 watts T5 lamp, best
suited the growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in the goldfish raft-aquaponics system. The
longer the lettuces were exposed to light, the greater the number of leaves produced and
the taller the shoot length yielded. On the other hand, the plant that had no exposure to
light, 0h photoperiod, had died as it cannot perform photosynthesis. Thus, it can be
concluded that the photoperiod has a direct and positive relationship with the plant’s
growth.
Photoperiod has no direct effect on the water quality, it is because only the crop
requires light for its growth. The levels of ammonia degraded by the end of experiment,
with measurements less than 1 ppm. On the other hand, dissolved oxygen in all set-ups
had measures greater than 5 ppm throughout the experiment, and have not reduced below
34
the limit. In conclusion, the water quality varies as the lettuce crop grew. As the crop
grows, the amount of nutrient requirement also increases.
5.2 Recommendations
In view of the foregoing findings and conclusions, the researches highly
recommend the following:
● The amount of light (power and length of light source) to be used should
be measured in proportion to the area of crop production, and light
requirement for crops should be considered ahead
● Consistent filtration operation should be monitored all throughout
especially in a raft type of aquaponics system, biofilter should be
considered
● Fish-weight ratio should be done to identify the appropriate fish feed
amount so as to acquire the optimum growth of the fish.
● Take into consideration the seasons of vegetables/crops while choosing
the fish
35
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42
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS (Handling Animals)
Letters and Certifications
Introduction
Objective of the Research
The objective of the research is to discuss the effects of photoperiod (0h, 6h, 12h, & 24h)
on the growth of the crop Lactuca sativa (lettuce) and on the water quality using
Carassius auratus (goldfish) in a raft aquaponics system.
Ethical Considerations
1. The Research participants Carassius auratus (goldfish) should not be subjected to
harm in any ways whatsoever.
2. A veterinarian will be consulted to check and ensure the well being of the
Carassius auratus ( goldfish) before and after the experiment.
3. A “go” signal should be obtained from the veterinarian prior to the experiment.
4. Any deception or exaggeration about the aims and objectives of the research will
be avoided.
5. The environment of the Carassius auratus ( goldfish) will remain constant
depending on the appropriate temperature that is best for the well-being of the
Carassius auratus ( goldfish).
6. There will be no tampering with the raft aquaponics system, Carassius auratus
(goldfish) during the experiment.
43
7. Carassius auratus ( goldfish) will be given the right amount of food needed for the
nutrition and well being of the animal.
8. Affiliations in any forms, sources of funding, as well as any possible conflicts of
interests will be declared for the wellbeing of the Carassius auratus (goldfish).
9. Any type of misleading information, as well as representation of primary data
findings in a biased way must be avoided.
10. If the Carassius auratus (goldfish) expires during the experiment, the researchers
will consider the experiment void and will do again the entire experiment.
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
February 13, 2019
Brian John Sarno, Ph.D.

Chair, Department of Chemistry
University of San Carlos - Talamban Campus, Cebu
Dear Dr. Sarno,
Greetings of Peace!
We, the Grade 12 STEM S11 students submit herewith a proposal in support of a
research entitled “The effects of Photoperiod on crop growth and water quality in
ettuce (Lactuca sativa) Raft-Aquaponics system” to
Goldfish (Carassius auratus) - L
be conducted at the University of San Carlos - Talamban Campus,USC Water laboratory
for the water quality samples. This study requires the use of the following list of
apparatuses and chemicals found in theWater laboratories:
In addition, we, the researchers humbly ask for your consent to use these apparatuses and
chemicals for our experiment on the following dates: March 28 and April 22, 2019. Your
permission to allow us use these would be of great help for us in the success of this
research. We will be responsible in taking care of the apparatuses.
Thank you and God bless us all!
Respectfully yours,
Julia Ryan G. Asignar Anthonette Marie A. Bentasal Allain Claire N. Labra

USC ID: 17100175 USC ID: 17100337 USC ID: 17100658
Lowen Olive R. Remedio Ingrid Dominique F. Tanudtanud

USC ID: 17100664 USC ID: 17101388
Noted by:
Mr. Michael C. Guinita Ms. Riza Marie Alfafara

Research Advisor Senior High School Principal
54
55
56
APPENDIX 2
2.1 Crop growth in terms of shoot length
RAW DATA
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4
0H 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
6H 0 0 0 0
49.8 0 0 0
50.1 55.7 0 0
50 56 58.2 60
0 0 0 0
12 H 52.1 58.7 62.2 60
51.7 57.5 63.5 85
53 61 63 60
51.1 52.8 54.1 56
51.8 60 0 0
57
24 H 66 76 88.7 140
66.7 76.5 89 147
67.1 77 90 155
66.5 77 90.1 165
65.9 75.9 89.5 133
Post hoc a nalysis
P-values for pairwise t-test for Factor 1 - Photoperiod
0H 6H 12H 24H
0.0 19.0 52.7 95.1
0H 0.0
6H 19.0 .0012
12H 52.7 9.89E-14 8.87E-08
24H 95.1 1.83E-25 1.35E-20 1.65E-10
Post hoc a nalysis
P-values for pairwise t-test for Factor 2 - Week Number
W1 W3 W2 w4
37.1 37.4 39.2 53.1
W1 37.1
W3 37.4 .9538
W2 39.2 .7061 .7495
w4 53.1 .0057 .0067 .0158
2.2 Crop growth in terms of number of leaves
58
RAW DATA
0H 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
6H 0 0 0 0
2 0 0 0
3 3 0 0
2 3 4 5
0 0 0 0
12 H 3 3 4 5
4 4 5 6
3 4 4 6
3 3 5 5
3 4 0 0
59
24 H 4 5 6 7
4 7 10 19
4 6 9 11
4 6 7 8
3 5 6 6
Post hoc a nalysis
P-values for pairwise t-test for Factor 1 - Photoperiod
0H 6H 12H 24H
0.0 1.1 3.7 6.9
0H 0.0
6H 1.1 .0669
12H 3.7 3.47E-08 4.09E-05
24H 6.9 2.13E-17 2.88E-14 1.32E-06
Post hoc a nalysis
P-values for pairwise t-test for Factor 2 - Week Number
W1 W2 W3 w4
2.1 2.7 3.0 3.9
W1 2.1
W2 2.7 .3548
W3 3.0 .1321 .5551
w4 3.9 .0033 .0380 .1321
APPENDIX 3
60
Liquidation Report
WATER LABORATORY EXPENSES (for final testing only)

________________________________________________________________________
Item Receipt Unit Price Quantity Amount
No.
_______________________________________________________________________
Ammonia
(mg N/L) none 715 per sample 4 P 2,860.00
________________________________________________________________________
Dissolved
Oxygen none 946 per sample 4 P 3,784.00
________________________________________________________________________
SUBTOTAL: P6,644.00
*The water lab tests was done twice, initial and final, with the initial testing funds taken
from the school tuition.
SETUP EXPENSES
________________________________________________________________________
Item Receipt Unit Price Quantity Amount
No.
________________________________________________________________________
Hose 5774 none 4m P40.00
________________________________________________________________________
Barrels 216589 250 4pcs. P1000.00

________________________________________________________________________
Wood none 46.25 20pcs P1369.00
74
________________________________________________________________________
Wires 074447 15.50 7m P91.25
61
9.75
074465 none 1m
________________________________________________________________________
Styro 265286 48 2pcs. P96.00
Foam 265074 31 2pcs. P62.00
________________________________________________________________________
Foam 5773 none 1pc P60.00
________________________________________________________________________
Water none 400 3pcs. P1200.00
pump
5747 none 1pc P 310.00
________________________________________________________________________
Outlet 074447 none 1pc P69.00
065538 none 1pc P80.00
________________________________________________________________________
Plug 074447 13 4pcs. P 52.00
074465 none 1pc P 13.00
________________________________________________________________________
Tape 065539 none 1pc P34.00
________________________________________________________________________
T5 074071 none 1 set P130.00
Lamps/Tube
07446 130 2 sets P260.00
________________________________________________________________________
SUBTOTAL P4866.25
________________________________________________________________________
TOTAL:
P11,510.25
________________________________________________________________________
62
63
APPENDIX 4
Documentation and Narrative Report
WEEK 1
I. Laboratory Reservation and Acquisition of GoldFish
On February 13, 2019, researchers had been working on the permission letters to the
Water Laboratory at the University of San Carlos - Talamban Campus. The letter was
approved days after it was sent and was ready for experimentation. Goldfish were bought
from “pilan-pilan”, a fish breeding ground in Cabancalan.
II. Acquisition of Material - Set ups
From February 16, 2019 to February 23, 2019, researchers started collecting materials for
the four raft aquaponics set ups at Colon and Carbon market and were brought to
Cabancalan to be prepared for the building of set ups.
64
WEEK 2
I. Building of Set ups and Frame
On February 17, 2019, the frame for the set ups were built in Adlaon then after, brought
to Cabancalan. The set ups were built after the frames were sent.
II. Building/installing of filters/lights and Trial for water recirculation
From February 24, 2019 to March 24, 2019, filters were made diy and were attached to
the barrels together with the water pumps. Electrical wirings for the T5 fluorescent tubes
were connected to all 4 setups. After all the setups were built and the necessary
components were attached, test for water recirculation was done to check if there was
overflow of water.
65
WEEK 3
I. Start of Experimentation
On March 25, 2019, all setups were up and running by exactly 7 am. This day is
considered as the first day of experimentation. Initial measurements of plant shoot length
and number of leaves were made. 500 mL water was collected from each setup and
brought to the USC water laboratory for initial water quality testing.
66
WEEK 4
I. Measuring the individual plant shoots and number of leaves after 1 week
On April 01, 2019, all plants in the experiment were measured (shoot length and number
of leaves) individually.
WEEK 5
I. Measuring the individual plant shoots and number of leaves after 2 weeks
WEEK 6
67
WEEK 7
of leaves) individually. 500 mL water was collected from each setup and brought to the
USC water laboratory for final water quality testing.
68
JULIA RYAN G. ASIGNAR
Senior High School Student
Contact number/s: (0995) 081 2798
Email address: ryanasignar@gmail.com
________________________________________________________________________
Personal Profile
Name: Julia Ryan G. Asignar Age: 19
Gender: Female Status: Single
Date of birth: March 1, 2000 Place of birth: Cebu City, Philippines
Weight: 45 kgs Height: 5’
Current address: V Rama Ave.,
Guadalupe Cebu City
69
Educational Attainment
Junior High School:
University of San Carlos - South Campus
Completed on March 23, 2017
Senior High School:
University of San Carlos- North School
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)- In progress
Research Experience
● Conducted a Research on the effects of generation gap between children
and parents(2018)
● Conducted and Investigatory Project on Crushed Scallop shells as an
alternative tile - Awarded as first place during Science Fair month; Featured
in Bato Balani Magazine (2016)
Leadership and other relevant experiences
● Treasurer - USC Student Body Association (2015-2016)
● Secretary - USC Student Body Association (2016–2017)
● Spearheaded Leadership Training Seminar - Family Park (2016)
Trainings, Workshops and Seminars Attended
● Leadership Training Seminar - USC - SC (2015)
● Youth Formation - USC - TC (2014)
70
ANTHONETTE MARIE A. BENTASAL
Email address: anthonettemariebentasal@gmail.com
________________________________________________________________________
Personal Profile
Name: Anthonette Marie A. Bentasal Age: 18
Date of birth: December 05, 2000 Place of birth: Koronadal City,
Weight: 51 kgs Philippines
Current address: The Rosepike @Forest Height: 5’2
Hills Banawa, Cebu City
71
Junior High School:
Notre Dame Siena School of Marbel
Senior High School:
Research Experience
● Conducted a research on The effects of tardiness among Grade 11 Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Student at the
University of San Carlos (2018)
72
ALLAIN CLAIRE N. LABRA
Contact number/s: (032) 462 2602, (0998) 891 2969
Email address: acey.labra@gmail.com
________________________________________________________________________
Personal Profile
Name:Allain Claire N. Labra Age: 18
Date of birth: May 2, 2000 Place of birth: Cebu City, Philippines
Weight: 48 kgs Height: 5’5”
Current address: 21-1 Pantaleon del
Rosario Street Barangay San Antonio,
Cebu City
Permanent Address: Sitio Proper, Barangay San Antonio, Cebu City
73
Junior High School:
Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion - Cebu (CIC)
Senior High School:
University of San Carlos - North School
Research Experience
● Participated in inter-grade level Science Investigatory Project Congress in
2014 and 2016 at CIC-Cebu
● Leader at Kalinangan Youth Foundation (KALFI) LEAD Cebu organization
(2017-until present)
● Executive Officer ( CIC- CAT Unit 1) (2016–2017)
● Member of Green Team (Organization) in CIC-Cebu
● Full-fledged member of Children of Mary (2013-2016)
● KALFI LEAD Summit
Quezon City, Metro Manila
December 2018
● Bread and Pastry Production NC II TESDA training
CIC-Cebu, 45 Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City
74
June 2015 -February 2017
● Citizens Advancement Training
April - June 2016
Character References
● Dr. Maria Teresa Caňete
Attending Physician at Chong Hua Hospital Attending Neurologist at Cebu
Hospitals Mentor at KALFI LEAD Cebu
(0922) 815 5523
● Michael Guinita
Registered Chemist Organic Chemistry Teacher University of San Carlos
michaelguinita@gmail.com
● Cristina Salonoy Ido, Registered Chemist Dalaguete High School Teacher
Former Green Team Organization Adviser and Chemistry Teacher at
CIC-Cebu (0909) 683 8554
75
LOWEN OLIVE R. REMEDIO
Email address: oliviaricacho@gmail.com
________________________________________________________________________
Personal Profile
Name: Lowen Olive R. Remedio Age: 18
Date of birth: March 5, 2001 Place of birth: Cebu City, Philippines
Weight: 60 kgs Height:
Current address: E. Aguirre St. Pilit
Cabancalan, Mandaue City
76
Junior High School:
Sacred Heart School - Ateneo de Cebu
Senior High School:
Research Experience
● Conducted a Research on the time management of volleyball players in
Sacred Heart School - Ateneo de Cebu (2016)
● Leader - research group (2015-2016)
● Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. Kool camp adventure (2017)
77
INGRID DOMINIQUE F. TANUDTANUD
Contact number/s: (032) 462 2602, (0967) 401 4361
Email address: tanudtanudingriddominique@gmail.com
________________________________________________________________________
Personal Profile
Name: Ingrid Dominique F. Tanudtanud Age: 18
Date of birth: October 26, 2000 Place of birth: Cebu, Philippines
Weight: 52 kgs Height: 4’10
Current address: Dela torre compound,
San Roque, Dawis, Talisay city, Cebu
78
Junior High School:
Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion- Cebu
Senior High School:
Research Experience
● Conducted a research on students relationship to school (2018)
● Sergeant Major Officer ( CIC- CAT Unit 1) (2016–2017)
● Member, Math Enthusiasts (2016–2017)
● “Game Changers” Seminar
Cebu Cultural Center, Gorordo Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
September 2014
● Bread and Pastry Production NC II Training
June 2015-February 2017
● Citizens Advancement Training
April-June 2016
79

A Research On Photoperiod of Crops Grown in Raft-Aquaponics

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A Research On Photoperiod of Crops Grown in Raft-Aquaponics

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CHAPTER 1

supply to meet the needs of the consumers of the Philippines.

The rise in pricing of agricultural products is due to economy, urbanization and

polyculture, and more. One of the alternative food productions is hydroponics.

growth, development, and yield processes. Hydroponics reduces water consumption

which results to water preservation.

nutrients are recirculated and reused.

Many studies have investigated effects of photoperiod on organic acids,

during the longer days.

Specifically, this study intends to:

1.1.1 identify which period of illumination (0 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours) is

2016; ​Hu, 2016).

1.2 Significance of the Study

can be an alternative for growing crops either for self-consumption or economical

into fertilizers for the plants, this also purifies water.

The researchers mainly focused on the raft aquaponics systems consisting of

and Dissolved Oxygen (DO) using Winkler method.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Aquaponics and System Design

Aquaponic systems are known as recirculating aquaculture systems that integrate

for reuse (Rakocy ​et. al.,​ 2006).

water culture system, was considered to be one of the long-established aquaponic

2016). The interest in aquaponics is growing since it can be applied in non-traditional

2.2 Species Specification

The goldfish (​Carassius auratus​) is a freshwater fish in the family Cyprinidae

become toxic and can be the cause of death to the goldfish.

The goldfish can be categorized as a cold-water fish. It can live in unheated

aquarium at a temperature that is comfortable for humans. However, when temperature

Goldfish is of the recommended fish to use in aquaponics. They produce a large

An example of a twin-tailed goldfish is the Oranda. Oranda have egg-shaped

covers the fish head and gill cover. (Silivonik, 2018)

lowered or raised gradually (Boumis, 2018).

While a goldfish can survive a huge pH range, there may be a change in pH

is a need. If the pH is high, no decorations should be found in the aquariums.

adds up the amount of oxygen.

plant is more likely to be used.

Figure 2.2: Body shape between male and female goldfish

Lettuce (​Lactuca sativa​) is an annual plant of the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is

parasitic outbreaks in humans (Kline, 2008).

transplant them into a grow bed once it has sprouted.

resulting to a good-quality lettuce (University of Illinois Extension, 2018).

their leaves require light to perform photosynthesis. Photosynthesis by definition is a

Ruban (2017) published an article in Nature emphasising that the utilisation of

optimised light harvesting management should be a motivation for research of the

in food supplies to the masses as the global population grows.

not respond to photoperiod.

production to roots than plants grown in shade.

2.4 T5 Lamps/ Tubes

According to Ramsundar (2015), in aquaponics systems, it is a must for

cultivators to mimic sunlight by means of specified lights when planting indoors,

particularly in a suburban setting. Fluorescent T5 bulbs together with LEDs and

Bernstein (2011)’s discussion agrees with (Rasmundar, 2015) because he also

even if they still look as bright as their first use.

According to Perry (n.d.) artificial lighting produced by indoor-installed bulbs

as intensity, and its duration or how long it will last.

2.4.1. T5 Wavelength Quality

The measurement of wavelength of the light that is produced by a specific light

and 6500K lights.

Figure 1: 600K spectrum Figure 2: 3000K spectrum

light. This is why we perceive them in green color.

Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) is what refers to the amount of light

at 435 nm and 615 nm.

2.4.2 T5 Light Quantity

2016; Hu, 2016).

for reuse (Rakocy et. al., 2006).

The goldfish (Carassius auratus) is a freshwater fish in the family Cyprinidae

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is an annual plant of the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is

transformed into nitrate by Nitrobacter bacteria in a two-step process known as

recommended that TAN in aquaponics systems be maintained at less than 1 ppm.

Figure 3: Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in Hydroponics Subsystem

Figure 4: Goldfish (Carassius auratus) in Aquaculture Sub system

A drop (0.05 ml) of MnSO4 solution

According to (Dinkel, 2006), ammonia level can be reduced by improving the