Practical drivers of water recycling in agro-aqua systems for long-term climate adaptation in semi- sahel zone

Water efficiency is a major concern for many agro-aqua units (AAU) in semi-sahel zone. At AAU scale, water intends to agro-aqua production is of great concern with regard to effluent-emitted during Growth Stages of Fish (GSF). The amount of water used and lost in these AAU as well as the resulting fertilizing potential are worth determining. Many descriptive and inferential approaches were used to estimate water inflows, water outflows and water reuse efficiency, and water performance indicators at AAU scales. The study demonstrated significant variability in AAU aquaculture production component according to GSF. High aquaculture water reuse efficiency was observed at proportions from 91% to 99% among AAU, with weaker statistical variations. This reflects important miletones, as adaptative options in agro-aqua production can be of concerned with regard to water recycling. Fish at adult GSF generated the most nutrient-rich effluents, particularly in terms of nitrogen and phosphorus, with high interaction between GSF, feed suppling, and organic load. High concentrations of total nitrogen, orthophosphate in juveniles, and in high concentration of potassium in fry were observed, as adding value to AAUs fertilizing potential. AAUs involving Clarias gariepinus production enhances cropping water in semi-sahel agro-aqua climatic conditions.