Evaluation of Anhydrous Ammonia For Fishery Management Uses

Anhydrous ammonia was applied to ponds at average rates of 18-40 ppm to evaluate its use as a fish toxicant and aquatic herbicide. Ponds contained toxic levels ofammonia for 3-4 weeks after applications, depending on concentration, water temperature and other factors. A regression model was developed to estimate specific dissipation times. Application of15ppm ammonia effected a high percent mortality to all fish species observed. Complete fish kills occurred at approximately 30 ppm ammonia. Any concentration above 15 ppm temporarily controlled most vegetation, regardless of season. Benthic organisms were reduced but not eliminated by any treatment. Anhydrous ammonia was found to be relatively inexpensive compared to other fish toxicants and aquatic herbicides.

Publication date
Starting page
88
Ending page
98
ID
41664