How it Works
Aquaponics is the combination of growing plants and fish symbioticly in a recirculating system. Aquaponics is completely different than conventional fish farms. A major problem within conventional fish farming is the ease in which disease spread throughout the fish poulation and the use of antibiotics to control disease. The antibiotics and hormones used by many farms are passed on to people when they eat the fish.
In an aquaponic system fish grow quickly and stay healthy (as long as they are put in there that way). One of several factors that limit the spread fish disease are the high levels of dissolved oxygen present in aquaponic systems. Aquaponic water is always moving throughout the system making it difficult for pathogens take hold. An established aquaponics system contains a lot of beneficial bacteria. This also makes it hard for pathogens to establish they are simply out competed by the good guys!
Here are the basics:
biofiltration: a separate area in which, the fish effluent is filtered out of the fish tanks. Then, water is pumped back and the process repeats itself. Unlike hydroponics you never change the water, ever! The savings in operation costs are substantial. The potential of operating farms on land otherwise deemed unsuitable for farming is immense, to say the least.
- In some systems the fish waste is distributed directly to hydroponic beds. Which method is best, involves various factors, these are left up to the gardener. Examples include: types of media, the amount of grow space and the type of plant grown, alternative energy and off-grid situations etc.
Types of Fish
Many types of fish have been used successfully in aquaponic systems. The most commonly used fish in The United States are Tilapia, Catfish, Perch, Trout, Sunfish, Goldfish and Koi. In Australia, Barramundi, Jade Perch, Silver Perch and Murrary Cod have all become successful species.
- Seth Geddes
Owner, Beneficial Living Center and Garden Supplies
"I attended an Aquaponics class last year at the BLC and am looking forward to an amazing new way of becoming sustainable. I am very impressed with Nick and Keri's knowledge and willingness to share information. I recommend taking their class even if you are a traditional backyard gardener to see how you can grow more with less space, resources and incorporate proteins for complete nutrition."
- Alicia Sidebottom