Although aquaponic farming has existed for thousands of years, it is only in recent decades that we have observed an increase in the number of homegrown systems. To begin your own aquaponic farm, here is a comprehensive guide providing you with all the necessary information.
Aquaponics is an eco-friendly and effective farming technique that combines the cultivation of fish (aquaculture) with the cultivation of plants (hydroponics) within a closed system. The waste generated by the fish is used as a source of nourishment for the plants, while the plants play a crucial role in purifying the water for the fish. This mutually beneficial association enables the maximized utilization of resources and has the potential to yield both fish and vegetables in a compact space, with reduced water and fertilizer requirements compared to conventional methods.
Aquaponics systems can be established in various environments, encompassing both small backyard systems and large commercial operations. Furthermore, these systems are capable of cultivating a diverse assortment of plants and fish species. The most frequently cultivated fish in aquaponics systems include tilapia, catfish, and trout. Concurrently, leafy greens such as lettuce, herbs, and kale are among the most commonly grown plants.
Aquaponics has the advantage of producing food sustainably and eco-friendly. Traditional farming methods are resource-intensive, relying on ample water, fertilizer, and pesticides. In contrast, aquaponics uses significantly less water (90% less) and eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Moreover, aquaponics systems can be implemented in urban areas due to their closed nature, making them a practical solution for food production in land-constrained cities.
In addition to educational and research purposes, aquaponics systems offer a distinctive chance for students to gain knowledge in biology, chemistry, and sustainable farming practices. Furthermore, researchers are investigating the feasibility of utilizing aquaponics for wastewater treatment and cultivating crops in challenging conditions like deserts or regions with high levels of heavy metal pollution.
Aquaponics systems possess the advantage of being adaptable due to their ability to be customized according to specific environmental factors like temperature, lighting, and humidity. This adaptability allows crops to be cultivated in regions that are typically unsuitable for agriculture. Moreover, these systems can be scaled to various sizes, including small backyard or indoor setups as well as large commercial operations.
The Difference Between Aquaponic, Hydroponic, and Aquaculture Farming Methods
Hydroponics involves cultivating plants in mineral-rich waters, while aquaculture entails raising aquatic animals like snails, fish, or prawns. Aquaponic farming combines these methods by raising aquatic animals that generate the mineral-rich waters essential for plant growth, resulting in a mutually beneficial relationship where the animals provide nutrition for the plants, and the plants maintain clean water for the animals.
How an Aquaponic Farm Works
Large tanks are used to raise aquatic animals. Over time, these tanks become murky due to excrement, uneaten fish food, and other animal wastes that contain a high concentration of nutrients and minerals. To remove these nutrients from the water and maintain clean aquaculture tanks, the waste is transferred from the tank to a flood tank where it is mixed with additional water. The diluted waste is then emptied into a grow bed where plants utilize the mineral-rich water while also filtering it. In the water, bacteria are cultivated to break down ammonia into nitrites and eventually nitrates. This aerated water is then returned to the fish tank, providing the animals with clean and clear water to support their growth and initiating the process once again.
What You Need to Start Your Own Aquaponic Farm
To begin, you will require the following items:
- Aquaponic fish tank: If you’re a beginner, the larger the tank the better. This way if problems arise down the road you’ll be able to catch them sooner. Any tanks above 250 gallons should be just fine.
- Aquaponic grow bed: A lot of homegrown systems use what is called “media beds.” These are essentially hydroponic growing beds that include built-in aquaponic functionality.
- Pumps, Pipes, & Tanks (optional): Many media beds will come with all you need to set up your aquaponic system. If, however, you decide to build your own system from scratch you may need to also purchase the necessary pumps, pipes, or tanks to set it all up.
How to Start Your Own Aquaponic Farm
Once your aquaponic farm is established, you will need to initiate your system by using a technique called “fishless cycling.” This process involves establishing a bacteria foundation before introducing any fish to the tanks. Additionally, it is essential to monitor the levels of ammonia and nitrites, ensuring they remain below 0.75ppm, and maintain adequate oxygen levels in the fish tank before introducing the fish. Although plants can be added to the beds right away, their growth may be slower during the initial weeks of cycling. If you wish to expedite this process, you can incorporate liquid seaweed into the beds, which will enhance their growth rate. A ratio of one quart per 250 gallons of water should suffice. Lastly, ensure that the beds are lined with food-grade material.
