In Papua New Guinea, aquaculture is an important source of protein for the rural majority of the population, contributing food security and income generation. Pond water quality is influenced by the soils in which aquaculture ponds are built, yet very little is known about soil limitations for freshwater pond aquaculture in PNG.
My project involves characterising soils and soil interactions with phosphorus so that water quality and pond productivity can be enhanced. I aim to develop pond management strategies to minimise cost of fertilisers and feeding, enhance natural feeding and ultimately increase pond yield and profitability for farmers.