Aqua Culture

The technique of Bamburi is to excavate down to 30 cm to 50 cm above the groundwater level. As a result small lakes, ponds and swamps were excavated and habitats for fish, birds and reptiles created. Wherever possible, water bodies and swamps were inter-connected by channels for the free movement of aquatic organisms. In a larger lake (wildlife sanctuary) hippopotami were introduced to keep the water-body healthy and prevent it from silting.

Fish farm
In 1980, the small commercial fish farm was established as part of the quarry rehabilitation project. René Haller had originally intended to use the quarry ponds for fish culture but this proved impractical due to their rapid reproduction that resulted in the rapid over population of the ponds, moreover there was no drainage in the ponds. Today the aquaculture unit serves as a showcase of aquaculture management.

Crocodile unit
There are over 80 crocodiles within various breeding ponds, enclosures and the ecosystems in Haller Park. Originally introduced as living garbage converters to utilise animal carcases not fit for human consumption, they soon started breeding successfully in the mid 80’s. The eggs would then be collected an incubated artificially. The skin and meat would then be sold commercially.

Crocodiles play a key ecological role. Because they are able to digest bones they excrete dissolved phosphate which is an important plant nutrient supplementing the nutrient rich water for the growth of aquatic plants.

Biofiltration
The original biofiltration system filtered water from the aquaculture activities but today the biofiltration site boasts two species of mangroves, Avecinnia and Rhizophera. This was a project done in collaboration with the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) and Greenwater. The biofiltration project is a major step towards improving water quality and groundwater recharge in Haller Park water circulation system. The aim of the biofiltration system is to act as a major functioning and eventually self-reliant nutrient sink.

Roles of plants in bio-filter systems:

- Filtration (root &/or stems may act as mechanical filter)

- Increase sedimentation (by reducing flow rates between stems/roots)

- Provide substrate for bacteria - increase active surface for bacteria to settle & feed.

- Some swamp plants release of oxygen into the root system, thereby increasing active area for aerobic bacteria.

- Uptake of mineralized nutrients into biomass, which can be harvested & removed from the system

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The story of Owen and Mzee

Found stranded on the Malindi beach after the 2004 Tsunami, Owen (hippopotamus) was rescued and brought to Haller Park where he was adopted by Mzee (a 130 year old tortoise) as his surrogate mother. It was this rare relationship that made Owen one of the famous animals worlwide.

Other Hippos at Haller Park