BLITAR – Fish farmers in Blitar Regency are facing growing challenges as extreme El Nino conditions continue to push temperatures higher and threaten pond water quality across aquaculture areas.
Local fisheries officials warned that leftover fish feed has become one of the main causes of declining water conditions during the prolonged dry season. Uneaten feed settles at the bottom of ponds and decomposes faster when temperatures rise. The process increases ammonia levels and creates dangerous conditions for fish farming.
Deki Nusa Asmara, head of aquaculture at the Blitar Livestock and Fisheries Agency, said farmers need to pay closer attention to pond management as weather conditions become harsher.
“Unused feed rots and lowers water quality. The condition can trigger stress and disease in fish,” Deki said.
He explained that rising temperatures also reduce dissolved oxygen levels in pond water. As oxygen levels fall, fish become weaker and more vulnerable to bacterial infections and disease outbreaks.
According to Deki, water quality now plays a decisive role in determining whether fish farmers can maintain stable production during the dry season. Poor pond conditions may lead to slower fish growth, higher mortality rates, and significant financial losses for farmers.
Many fish farmers still give excessive amounts of feed in an effort to speed up fish growth. However, Deki warned that overfeeding creates serious long-term problems for aquaculture ponds. Excess feed not only increases operational costs but also accelerates the buildup of organic waste in the water.
“Farmers should provide feed according to the actual needs of the fish. Do not let leftover feed settle at the bottom of the pond,” he explained.
In addition to controlling feed portions, fisheries officials urged farmers to monitor pond conditions more frequently during the dry season. Farmers should routinely check water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, and ammonia content to prevent sudden declines in water quality.
If pond conditions start worsening, farmers should immediately take preventive action. Officials recommend partial water replacement and additional aeration to maintain oxygen circulation and reduce harmful substances in the pond.
Deki also highlighted the importance of keeping ponds clean throughout the dry season. Mud, algae, and organic waste can accumulate more quickly during periods of extreme heat and limited rainfall. Without regular cleaning, the pond environment can deteriorate rapidly and increase the risk of disease spreading among fish stocks.
The warning comes as many regions in Indonesia continue to experience hotter weather patterns linked to El Nino. Fisheries authorities expect the dry season to place additional pressure on freshwater aquaculture businesses, especially small-scale fish farmers who rely heavily on stable pond conditions.
Despite the risks, officials believe farmers can still maintain healthy fish production through disciplined pond management and careful feeding practices.
“With proper management, farmers can reduce the impact of poor water quality despite unfavorable weather conditions,” Deki added.