5 FAQ’s for the use of Ultraviolet UVC Germicidal Lamps in Aquaculture and Horticulture Applications

1.    Can Ultraviolet Germicidal Lamps be used for water disinfection in Aquaculture?

a.       Yes, the use of ultraviolet water disinfection systems in fish farms, mussel farms, aquariums and hatcheries has lead to the production of healthier and larger fish, improved water quality, possible increases in stock density and vastly reduces the risk of disease.

2.    Does UVC germicidal light produce any dangerous byproducts in treated water?

a.       No, UVC germicidal light does not alter the chemistry of the water, nor does it alter the pH, odor or color of the water. It only destroys single cell microorganisms within the water. At the 254 nm wavelength UVC germicidal light penetrates the cell wall of the microorganism. The UVC energy permanently alters the DNA structure of the microorganism in a process called thymine dimerization. This inactivates the microorganism and renders it unable to reproduce or infect.

3.    Can UVC lamps (254nm) destroy residual Ozone (185nm)?

a.        Ozone is often used in a fish hatchery to enhance the quality of problematic water sources used for incubating and rearing fish. However, residual ozone in the water can be extremely toxic or fatal to the aquatic life being reared. Applying 254nm UVC germicidal light systems will consume the residual ozone in the bulk water prior to contacting the fish. The 254nm UVC energy breaks apart the ozone molecule; with one of the by-products being oxygen, a benefit to the fish.

4.    How does Ultraviolet Germicidal Light benefit Horticulture Applications?

a.       UVC light rays will not affect the ph or chemistry of the water applied to the Rhizosphere, and unlike H₂O₂ it will not have an adverse affect on organic additives or be carried over and affect germination or seedling development. Several of the species that inhabit the Rhizosphere now demonstrate multiple resistivity’s against antibiotics. These include Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, Ralstonia and Staphylococcus. None of these species can or is able to develop resistance to UVC germicidal light.

5.    What applications in Aquaculture can Ultraviolet Germicidal Lamps be used?

a.       Fish Farms, Hatcheries, Aquariums, Zoo’s, and Aquatic Laboratories all benefit from the use of  the UVC Germicidal Lamp’s ability to kill microorganism’s and stop the spread of disease without the use of harsh and hazardous chemicals.

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