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Review Paper | Chemical Sciences | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 515 - 522 | India
Hydrochemical Characteristics of Groundwater in Aquaculture-Dominated Regions: A Review
Abstract: Aquaculture has emerged as a major contributor to global food security; however, its rapid expansion has raised concerns regarding its influence on groundwater quality and hydrochemical characteristics. Among the key water quality parameters, alkalinity and hardness play significant roles in maintaining the chemical stability and biological productivity of aquaculture systems. Adequate alkalinity acts as a buffering agent that stabilizes pH, minimizes the toxicity of ammonia and carbon dioxide, and supports efficient biofiltration through enhanced nitrification. Similarly, water hardness, primarily governed by calcium and magnesium ions, reduces the toxicity of heavy metals such as copper and zinc, thereby improving aquatic organism health. Nevertheless, imbalances in these parameters can adversely affect aquatic ecosystems. In waters characterized by high alkalinity but low calcium concentrations, intensive photosynthetic activity may elevate pH to levels that become harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms. Furthermore, excessive alkalinity can alter ecosystem functioning and reduce biodiversity. The expansion of aquaculture, particularly in coastal regions, has also been associated with groundwater salinization caused by seawater intrusion and the seepage of saline aquaculture effluents, leading to significant changes in alkalinity, hardness, salinity, and other physicochemical parameters. This review synthesizes recent findings on the interactions between aquaculture practices and groundwater quality, with particular emphasis on alkalinity, hardness, salinity, and their ecological implications. It also highlights the need for sustainable aquaculture management practices to minimize groundwater contamination and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Aquaculture, groundwater contamination, alkalinity, hardness, salinity, biofiltration, nitrification, photosynthesis, aquatic ecosystem, water quality
How to Cite?: Racheeti prasanna Babu, Lanka Bhushan Kumar, "Hydrochemical Characteristics of Groundwater in Aquaculture-Dominated Regions: A Review", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 515-522, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26706155657, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26706155657