Effect Of N.P.K on the Larval Survival Of Oreochromis niloticus

ABSTRACT

Three concentrations of aqueous solutions of N.P.K 15:15:15 were prepared corresponding to recommended fertilization rates of 120kg/ha/2 weeks on a lha pond of 0.8m depth for N.P.K. These were serially diluted to yield 0.0mg/1, 4.5mg/I and 15mg/I and 22.5mg/l respectively in control; treatment I, 2 and 3 were used for N.P.K fertilizer. O. niloticus larvae was exposed to the media for 72 hours during which the larvae were swimming eractically, vigour lost, decrease in feed intake with increase in concentration, the toxicity lead to reduction in survival with increase in concentration. Water quality examination should a decrease in dissolved oxygen content and increase in alkalinity and total hardness. Toxicological implications of this finding in relations to aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity are discussed.