Anammox process for aquaculture wastewater treatment: operational condition, mechanism, and future prospective

Abstract

Treatment of ammonia- and nitrate-rich wastewater, such as that generated in the aquaculture industry, is important to prevent environmental pollution. The anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) process has been reported as a great alternative in reducing ammoniacal nitrogen concentration in aquaculture wastewater treatment compared to conventional treatment systems. This paper will highlight the impact of the anammox process on aquaculture wastewater, particularly in the regulation of ammonia and nitrogen compounds. The state of the art for anammox treatment systems is discussed in comparison to other available treatment methods. While the anammox process is viable for the treatment of aquaculture wastewater, the efficiency of nitrogen removal could be further improved through the proper use of anammox bacteria, operating conditions, and microbial diversity. In conclusion, a new model of the anammox process is proposed in this review. HIGHLIGHTS Anammox bacteria technology as an alternative for wastewater management in aquaculture.; The important role of the marine anammox bacteria and its mechanism are summarized.; The efficiency of nitrogen removal could be further improved by proper management of operating conditions.; Limitations and future prospective of the anammox application are highlighted.; Prospects for future applications are discussed.;

Keywords

• ammonia
• anammox
• aquaculture wastewater
• microbial
• nitrogen removal