Water Quality Management as a Strategy for Reducing Post-Harvest Losses in Small-Scale Aquaculture Systems: Implications for a Resilient Blue Economy

Post-harvest losses remain a major challenge in aquaculture, undermining food security, economic returns, and the sustainability of aquatic food systems. While considerable attention has been given to post-harvest handling and preservation technologies, the contribution of pre-harvest water quality management to post-harvest loss reduction remains explored. This study evaluated the influence of key water quality parameters on fish health, product quality, and subsequent post-harvest losses in small-scale aquaculture systems.The study aimed to determine the relationship between water quality conditions and fish quality at harvest, assess the effects of water quality-induced stress on post-harvest deterioration, and identify practical management interventions that can reduce losses along the aquaculture value chain. Water quality data, including dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids, were monitored in selected aquaculture production units. Observations on fish health, survival, growth performance, and market acceptability were used to evaluate the implications of water quality on product quality and post-harvest outcomes.

Results indicated that suboptimal water quality conditions increased physiological stress, reduced growth performance, and predisposed fish to disease and mortality. Fish harvested from systems with poor water quality exhibited lower market quality and a higher likelihood of spoilage-related losses. Conversely, regular monitoring and maintenance of optimal water quality parameters improved fish condition, enhanced product quality, and reduced losses throughout the value chain. The findings demonstrate that effective water quality management is a critical but often overlooked strategy for reducing post-harvest losses in aquaculture. Integrating routine water quality monitoring into production systems can strengthen sustainable aquatic food systems, improve livelihoods, and contribute to the development of a resilient blue economy..