Aquaponics integrates hydroponics and aquaculture into one cohesive system, showcasing a sustainable growing technique.
The name is a fusion of both words, incorporating “aqua” from aquaculture, the practice of breeding aquatic animals in tanks, and “ponics” from hydroponics, the method of cultivating plants in soilless water.
Aquaponics involves a closed-loop system where both fish and plants are produced concurrently in an eco-friendly manner.
Aquaponics systems, whether small or large, can be established either indoors or outdoors. For urban farmers looking to generate a steady source of fresh vegetables and fish, compact aquaponics systems are an excellent choice as they are space-efficient.
What Is The Point Of Aquaponics?
Aquaponics aims to cultivate plants and fish in an environmentally conscious manner, promoting sustainability and aiming for minimal waste.
Aquaponics imitates the structure of a natural ecosystem and utilizes the interdependencies between plants, bacteria, and aquatic organisms that occur in natural aquatic environments.
How Does Aquaponics Work?
In an aquaponics system the fish and bacteria provide nutrients for the plants and the plants filter the water for the fish. It is a closed-loop system that recycles water and minimizes waste.
This is the process by which an aquaponics system operates.
- The fish eat the food you provide and produce ammonia-rich waste.
- Water with fish waste is pumped to the grow bed, a container providing a place for the plants to grow.
- In the grow bed, bacteria convert the fish waste (ammonia and nitrites) into fertilizer (nitrates) for the plants.
- The plants use the nitrates for growth and to purify the water.
- The clean water is returned to the fish tank and the cycle repeats itself.
The Basic Components of an Aquaponics System
Irrespective of the size or chosen growing method, every aquaponics system requires these essential components.
- A fish tank
- Pumps and hardware
- Grow beds
- Fish
- Plants
- Bacteria
- Light
Why Is pH In Aquaponics So Important?
Effectively controlling the pH level of water in your aquaponics system is crucial for achieving success, but it can be a challenging task.
All living components of the system, including fish, bacteria, and plants, have their own optimal pH range, which is the cause for this.
Inaccurate water pH levels can result in diminished plant growth, compromised fish health, and in severe instances, the potential death of bacteria, fish, or plants.
Aim for a neutral pH range to meet the needs of your plants, fish, and bacteria as plants thrive on slightly more acidic levels whereas bacteria and fish thrive on slightly alkaline levels.
In order to ensure optimal functionality of the bacteria and provide the necessary nutrients for plant growth, it is important to maintain the pH level within the range of 6.8 to 7.2 in an aquaponics system.
What Can You Grow in Aquaponics?
The best plants to grow in your aquaponics system will depend on the size of the system, although it is possible to grow most plants in it.
Systems that are smaller in size and have fewer fish tend to exhibit lower waste and nutrient concentrations, whereas larger systems, conversely, have a greater number of fish and higher nutrient concentrations.
In the following paragraphs, we will explore several remarkable plant varieties that are well-suited for cultivation in an aquaponics system.
- Leafy greens
Leafy green vegetables thrive in aquaponics systems of any size due to their low nutrient requirements. This makes them particularly suitable for beginners and those with smaller or recently established systems.
These leafy greens are rich in nutrients and simple to cultivate.
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Spinach
- Swiss Chard
- Arugula
- Bok Choy (Pak Choi)
- Herbs
Small aquaponics systems are ideal for growing herbs, which, similar to leafy greens, have minimal nutrient demands. Herbs are highly adaptable and can be utilized in both medicine and cooking.
These herbs are known for their distinct aromas and flavors and can be used in various ways due to their easy cultivation.
- Mint
- Basil
- Cilantro (Coriander)
- Parsley
- Oregano
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Microgreens
Microgreens can be grown in an aquaponics system and harvested within 14 days, making them an excellent all-year-round source of nutritious greens and a lucrative crop option.
In small systems, growing them is easy and rewarding due to their low nutrient requirements.
For beginners, here is a selection of some of the best vegetables and herbs that can be grown as microgreens.
- Alfalfa
- Clover
- Collards
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Radish
- Broccoli
- Arugula
- Watercress
- Pea shoots
- Mustard
- Vegetables
In aquaponics systems, vegetables thrive as delicious and lucrative plants. Nevertheless, due to their high nutrient demands, they necessitate larger systems to ensure successful growth.
These vegetables are widely favored for their successful growth in aquaponics systems.
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Squash
- Peas
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Fruiting plants
Fruiting plants are highly suitable for larger aquaponics systems due to their moderate to high nutrient needs.
If you have the opportunity, it is highly recommended to incorporate homegrown fruit into your aquaponics system as it not only offers a delicious taste, but is also packed with essential vitamins.
These are some fruiting plants that can be easily cultivated in aquaponic systems.
- Strawberries
- Dwarf Citrus Trees
- Dwarf Pomegranate Trees
- Bananas
- Melons
- Pineapples
- Flowers
Choosing to grow flowers in your aquaponics system is a simple and enjoyable option. You have the opportunity to sell the plants, use cut flowers as decorative elements, or even sell flowers that are safe to eat.
These are a few of the finest flowers to experiment with in your aquaponics setup.
- Marigolds
- Roses
- Nasturtiums
- Pansies
- Sunflowers
- Tulips
- Water hyacinths
The Best Fish For Aquaponic Systems
Tilapia is the subject of the text.
The Nile variety and the Mozambique tilapia are the two most commonly raised species in aquaponics. The Mozambique tilapia, a small fish, is among these popular species.
Tilapia, particularly the Nile and Mozambique species, are widely considered as the most popular fish for aquaponics.
Moreover, tilapia hold the distinction of being among the earliest fishes to be cultivated. Tilapia thrive in habitats with temperatures ranging from 72° – 86° F, although they perform exceptionally well in warmer waters. Furthermore, tilapia can tolerate varying pH levels, spanning from 6.5 – 9. Approximately after 9 months, they become viable for harvest.
Trout is the second item.
The brown trout flourishes in cold water environments and thrives in high oxygen levels.
Trout, which are referred to as the cool water fish in aquaponics, are able to thrive in various climates; however, they particularly favor temperatures ranging from 56° to 68° F. Brown, rainbow, and brook are the most frequently encountered types of this fish.
The rainbow species are typically the most commonly utilized in systems.
Growers frequently switch between raising tilapia during warmer months and trout during colder months.
It may take trout up to 16 months to attain a weight of 1 pound due to their slower growth rate.
Maintaining pH levels within the range of 6.5 – 8 is crucial for attracting trout, as they are naturally drawn to pristine water. Keeping a careful watch on these pH levels is essential for successfully cultivating this fish that thrives in clean water.
Barramundi 3 is concerned.
Aquaponics has witnessed a growing demand for Barramundi, making it an increasingly sought-after premium option.
Despite being more difficult to handle, Barramundi stands out among the top choices for fish to be cultivated in aquaponics due to its exceptional growth rates, high demand, and delicious flavor.
Contrastingly to trout, barramundi are definitely warm water fish. Similarly, however, they need premium water conditions and highly dissolved oxygen levels. Barramundi can live in fresh and saltwater systems.
Ensure that barramundi are separated and safeguarded during their growth period to prevent larger ones from preying on smaller fingerlings. Maintain temperatures within the range of 78° – 83° F.
They are naturally inclined towards pH levels ranging from 7.2 to 8. It usually takes about a year for them to achieve a weight of 1 to 4 pounds.
Perch is number 4.
Perch come in a few varieties and can all be adapted to suit an aquaponic system.
There are several types of perch available including Silver, Yellow, and Jade. Each type of perch has different requirements, so it is important to carefully assess and examine them to ensure they are suitable for your system.
Like tilapia, perch are also excellent fish for beginners due to their adaptability. Perch typically thrive in warmer water temperatures, which range from 70° to 82° F.
Smaller fish, bugs, and shrimp are typically consumed by silver and yellow perch, whereas the jade variety has a preference for vegetables as part of its diet.
The harvesting process for perch can range from 12 to 16 months, depending on the specific variety. Moreover, they thrive in pH levels that range between 6.5 to 8.5.
Catfish is the fifth episode.
Catfish is not only a delicacy but also known for being one of the most effortless fish to cultivate.
When it comes to aquaponics, catfish, particularly channel catfish, are an essential component.
This particular species is capable of tolerating changes in temperature and coexisting with other aquaponic fish such as tilapia, crappie, and koi. Furthermore, they do not exhibit territorial behavior and can adapt well to higher stocking densities.
These fish, recognized globally for their delicious taste, are also able to endure and thrive in heavily polluted waters.
Catfish are an excellent option for beginners due to their durability and adaptability. They thrive in temperatures ranging from 75° to 85° F and require pH levels between 7 and 8. Additionally, their rapid growth allows them to be harvested within 4 to 5 months.
Bass: 6
There is a wide range of bass species available that can be tailored to suit the requirements of your systems.
The bass fish is highly versatile in aquaponics. Different varieties of bass can adapt to different temperature and pH ranges, have a long lifespan, large weight, and diverse feeding requirements.
Some of the bass varieties are largemouth, commonly known as bucketmouth, smallmouth, hybrid striped, Australian, and white bass.
Furthermore, bass are known to predominantly feed on the surface, so the amount of food present at the top serves as a reliable indicator of their dietary needs. When the food sinks, it suggests an excessive amount has been provided.
Bass thrive in temperatures ranging from 65° to 80° F and require pH levels that are relatively higher, between 6.5 and 8.5. After approximately a year, the bass should reach a weight of 1 pound and become suitable for consumption.
7: Carp.
The carp, just like tilapia, is an excellent choice for beginners due to its hardiness.
Carp is an excellent option for aquaponics due to its adaptability to both low and high temperatures. Like tilapia, carp are resilient fish that can endure significant fluctuations.
Carp possess a diverse diet, consuming a wide variety of foods. They have a preference for temperatures that fall within the range of 68° – 77°. It is recommended to maintain pH levels for carp between 7.5 – 8. The harvesting period for carp typically spans from 12 to 16 months.
Number nine is the Crappie.
Crappie are highly favored in Australia and are a perfect fit for the climate.
The black and white varieties are the two main types of crappie that are suitable for aquaponics. They are delicious panfish with a taste similar to bass, and also known for their strong and sturdy nature.
The only noticeable distinction between the two is that the white species is slightly smaller compared to the black one.
The ideal temperature range for Crappie is 60° – 75° F, and they perform most efficiently within pH levels of 6.5 – 8.2. It usually takes about 2 years for Crappie to reach a harvestable size.
The number 10 represents Bluegill.
Aquaponic farmers are increasingly finding bluegill to be an excellent choice for their fish.
Bluegill is gaining popularity as a preferred option in aquaponics due to their resilient nature, comparable to tilapia. These fish are omnivorous and do not require high protein intake.
The bluegill fish is inclined towards a specific temperature range of 70° – 75° F, and it shows a preference for a slightly higher pH range of 7 – 9. The bluegill takes approximately 12 months to reach the stage where it can be harvested.
11: Pacu, also known as “Ball cutter,” is a fish species found in the Amazon.
In the aquaponic tanks, Pacu have a distinct requirement for coverage and protection.
Don’t get confused – pacu are not piranha’s! They are actually called vegetarian piranhas. Although strikingly similar and originating from similar places they are quite distinct.
Pacu thrives in temperature ranges of 75° – 80° F and usually have pH levels between 6.5 – 7.5.
The number 12 corresponds to salmon.
Raising salmon is a challenging task, yet it results in one of the most nutritious fish.
Like trout, salmon is known to be challenging to cultivate in aquaponics, but the delicious flavor and nutritional benefits make it worth the effort.
In addition to needing ample space, they have a strict requirement for very consistent cold freshwater. The ideal water temperature range for them is between 55° – 65° F.
Salmon need specific pH levels between 7 – 8, and it may take up to two years, depending on factors like time and type, before they reach a size suitable for consumption.
13: Gold Fish Rephrase: The thirteenth item on the list is a gold fish.
Goldfish are extremely common and can be found all over the world.
In terms of aquaponics, goldfish resemble koi in their attributes. These resilient fish, though not consumed, fulfill the same role as other fish in the system.
Furthermore, there are two standout types of goldfish that are particularly noteworthy due to their beautiful appearance.
Integrating twin-tailed goldfish with single-tailed ones should be avoided as it could lead to their death and cause more suffering compared to the single-tailed goldfish.
Both species, on the other hand, have a preference for temperature ranging from 68° to 75° F and pH levels between 6 and 8.
Koi: Fourteen.
In aquaponic systems, Koi stands out as one of the most visually stunning fish you can rear.
Koi are akin to tilapia in numerous aspects and are commonly found in the same locations as tilapia. What makes koi particularly remarkable is that their sale value can be exceptionally high, based on their design.
Furthermore, they can be conveniently obtained from various pet stores, ensuring their accessibility and availability. Additionally, they boast impressive longevity, uncomplicated dietary requirements centered around plants, and a natural resistance to parasites.
Koi thrive in temperatures ranging from 65° to 75° F, and although it may come as a surprise, they are edible. However, it is advisable to avoid eating them. Lastly, koi exhibit a fondness for pH levels within the range of 7 to 8.
Other Helpful Species In Aquaponics System
Crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp…
It is highly beneficial to consider crustaceans as valuable assistants in the system, given their significant role as bottom dwellers.
Prawns, crayfish, mussels, oysters, and lobsters are examples of crustaceans. What is remarkable is that these creatures, which generally inhabit the ocean floor, can also coexist with fish in the same environment.
Usually, they establish their presence below rafts and remain at the bottom. Their contribution is significant as they consume decaying organic matter present in the tanks, which helps in the cleaning process.
Mussels, in particular, possess the natural ability to purify the water in tanks. They thrive in temperatures between 57° – 84° F. The harvesting period for mussels is relatively brief, lasting approximately 3 – 6 months. Crustaceans, on the other hand, have a preference for pH levels within the range of 6.5 – 8.
Aesthetic Fish For Aquaponics
1. The word “Guppy”
Guppies are highly recommended for small-scale and hobbyist systems.
Guppies come in a wide range of varieties, but what sets them apart is their remarkable appearance as an eye-catching fish. They are commonly chosen for smaller hobby setups since they cannot be consumed.
Guppies are readily available at almost all animal stores, making them easily manageable. They make an excellent choice for small-scale systems. They have a preference for temperature ranges of 74° – 82° F that are relatively narrow.
Tetra Fish are known for their vibrant colors, small size, and ease of care.
For aesthetics and hobbyists, the tetra fish is an excellent choice due to its versatility in appearance.
Like any other type of fish, tetra fish come in a variety of species, each differing in size and color. Similar to guppies, they are mainly kept for their appearance and are not typically consumed as food.
Tetra fish come from the Amazon rainforest and require higher temperatures ranging from 70° to 81° F for their habitat. They have a preferred pH level of 6 to 7.
Where to Buy Fish for Aquaponics
It may sound unbelievable, but you can actually purchase live fish on the internet and have them delivered to your doorstep.
Make sure to choose a trustworthy vendor that comes highly recommended by other customers and provides a guarantee for the safe arrival of their fish.
It is important to ensure that there is someone available at home to receive the fish upon their arrival as expedited shipping is also a consideration.
If you want to purchase local fish, you can explore online platforms for domestic suppliers of live fish. Nevertheless, it’s also feasible to transport live fish across international borders.
Air freight has been used to successfully transport ornamental fish for many years. Nowadays, this method is also utilized for transporting aquaculture products, including eggs, fry, and fingerlings.
Live fish can be transported almost anywhere in the world and arrive in a healthy condition.
There are other ways to obtain fish for your aquaponics system aside from purchasing them online.
You can also contact fish hatcheries in your area and purchase fingerlings from them, or get in touch with other aquaponics farmers near you and buy some of their surplus fish.
When purchasing fish from local sources, it offers advantages as you can be assured of their readiness to thrive in the local climate, and you frequently receive guidance on their behavior and feeding directly from the farmers.
In case you are considering incorporating ornamental goldfish or koi fish into your system, it should be possible to purchase them from local pet and garden stores.
8 Factors to Consider When Choosing Fish for Aquaponics
When selecting your aquaponics fish, it is crucial to consider these eight factors in order to achieve success and meet the needs of your system.
- Temperature preference – One of the first things you should consider is if the fish you are planning to raise can survive the temperature range in your location. If not, you are going to have to heat or cool the water for them to thrive. Knowing the temperature range in your area and the preference of the fish will help when choosing the best fish for your aquaponics system.
- Local availability – Another thing to consider is the availability of fish in your location. Using local fish or popular fish readily available in your area makes acquiring fingerlings much easier.
- Are they legal – It is illegal to purchase and grow certain fish in some areas. Before deciding on a fish for your aquaponics system, check your local fish farming laws to ensure the fish you intend to use is legal.
- Maintenance requirements – Some fish are hardy and adaptable and need little care. Sensitive fish, on the other hand, are time-consuming and costly to raise. Hardy, resilient fish are often immune to parasites and diseases and are an excellent choice for beginners in aquaponics.
- Diet requirements – You need to consider the diet requirements of the fish in your aquaponics system. Some diets will affect the maintenance costs and sustainability of your system. Fish are classified based on their feeding patterns and are carnivores, herbivores, omnivores or detritivores.
- Space requirements – It is beneficial to know the adult size of the fish you want to raise and how much space they need. The size of your fish tank will determine what type of fish are suitable and how many you can have. Some fish need more space than others to thrive.
- System filtration capacity – The filtration capacity of your aquaponics grow bed will also dictate what type and quantity of fish you can keep. Your system needs to be balanced to ensure optimal growing conditions for both the fish and the plants.
- Breeding habits – You should also consider fish breeding habits when selecting fish for your aquaponics system. Some fish don’t reproduce in captivity, while others reproduce quickly and may cause fish density problems.
How to Build an Aquaponics System – Step by Step
Purchasing large, pre-made aquaponics systems can be costly. Despite the availability of smaller kits, constructing a DIY aquaponics system can be highly fulfilling.
Planning and dedicating time are necessary for building a DIY aquaponics system from the ground up. Nonetheless, this option is cost-effective and enables you to tailor the system according to your specific space and needs.
When constructing a DIY aquaponics system, it is also possible to recycle objects and opt for environmentally friendly materials.
Follow the instructions provided to establish a media-based aquaponics system in your residence and cultivate a variety of nourishing vegetables and fish.
Step 1: Locate a place.
You must choose a location for your aquaponics system prior to starting the construction process. In case you intend to utilize the system for cultivating and selling fresh produce, a larger system and additional space will be necessary.
When deciding on a suitable location, take into account your surroundings and the climate in your area, as an aquaponics system can be situated either indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse.
Indoor setup of the system is possible for urban residents living in high-rise buildings, utilizing either artificial or window lighting.
If your climate allows, you have the opportunity to cultivate aquaponics produce outdoors throughout the year in a flat and sunny spot. Nevertheless, in areas with cold winters, you might be required to transfer your system indoors or place it within a greenhouse.
It is important to closely monitor aquaponics systems, therefore it is advisable to install them nearby instead of placing them in the farthest corner of your property.
If you are not utilizing solar power, it is essential to have access to electricity for operating the pump, as well as a water source to fill and occasionally replenish the tank.
Proceed to establish your fish tank according to Step 2.
The tank size you require for your system will depend on the size of your system and the type of fish you choose to keep.
Large opaque barrels or square bins commonly utilized are often recycled from the food industry, although old baths, metal watering troughs, or wooden structures lined with pond liners are also effective alternatives.
Position the tank in the spot you have selected. If utilizing a barrel, it is necessary to slice open the top to enable oxidation and construct a stand to avoid it from tipping over.
Step 3: Construct the bed where plants will thrive.
The growing bed, which supports the plants, is a waterproof container that holds a soilless medium. It can be positioned above or beside the fish tank, also known as a flood table.
You have the option of buying pre-made growing bed containers, utilizing sizable heavy-duty plastic trays, or modifying wooden pallet crates.
Nonetheless, constructing low wooden grow beds with a depth ranging from six to ten inches (15 to 25 cm), like raised beds, offers a straightforward and budget-friendly remedy.
Once your boxes are finished, it is necessary to line them with a pond liner and place them on a sturdy stand capable of supporting their weight when filled with media and water.
Remembering to tilt the beds at approximately five degrees is crucial, as opposed to keeping them flat, in order to ensure proper water flow through the media bed and back into the fish tank.
Additionally, it is necessary to create an opening at the bottom of the cultivation bed in order for the PVC pipe to facilitate the return of water to the fish tank.
After mounting it, you can proceed to fill the grow bed with your preferred growing medium. Perlite is a lightweight option that facilitates the elevation of the grow beds, while gravel, although inexpensive, can be heavy.
Clay pebbles are favored due to their popularity, as they are pH neutral, retain moisture effectively, and provide a substantial surface area for bacteria.
Complete step 4 by adjusting the components to ensure proper fit.
In order to transfer the water from your fish tank to the grow bed and vice versa, you will require a pump, piping, and plumbing fittings.
It would be wise to position the pump at the bottom of the fish tank so that it can push water towards the elevated portion of the growing bed. Consider utilizing a T-fitting with a cross pipe that matches the dimensions of the grow bed for the end of the pump hose.
Create perforations in the cross pipe to ensure uniform water distribution throughout the entire width of the grow bed.
The pump can be controlled by a timer, enabling the regulation of water flow into the grow beds. The frequency at which you flood the beds is determined by the specific needs of the plants being cultivated.
Proceed to test your aquaponics system in Step 5.
After installing all the components, the next step is to test the system.
In order to add fish, either fill the tank with pond or rainwater. However, if tap water is used, it is necessary to wait for a minimum of two weeks to allow the natural bacteria to develop before introducing any fish.
After turning on the pump, ensure that the water circulates and inspect all piping and joints for any signs of leaks. The water should be pumped to the grow bed, flow through it, and then return back into the tank.
Step 6: Incorporate the fish
After setting up and testing your system, you are free to introduce your fish.
An aquaponics system that is properly balanced is capable of accommodating one pound (0.45kg) of fish for every gallon (3.78 liters) of water.
To begin, it is recommended to incorporate one fish per 10 gallons (37.8 liters) of water, which allows sufficient space for the fish and maintains the system’s equilibrium. Additional fish can be introduced at a later stage if desired.
It is important to ensure that your water meets the specific needs of the fish you have selected before introducing your fingerlings.
Growing and producing enough waste to support plants will require your fingerlings some time.
The water must circulate through the grow beds throughout this period, as the growing medium functions as a filter for the water, regardless of whether plants are being cultivated or not.
Step 7: Incorporate the plants into the mixture.
When adding plants to your growing bed, utilizing seedlings is an efficient method since they already have a head start. It is crucial to select plants which are compatible with the size and nutrient production capabilities of your system.
Planting seeds in trays of potting soil when introducing fingerlings to the tank is advisable. By the time the seedlings are suitable for transplantation, your fish should be generating sufficient waste to sustain them.
After removing your seedlings from the soil, make sure to delicately wash off the soil from the roots using a water-filled container. Then, gently position the plants into the growing medium, ensuring that they are placed deep enough to access water and essential nutrients.
Adding plants to your aquaponics system can be done in ways other than seedlings.
In addition, you have the option to directly plant seeds in your grow beds, utilize starter plugs, and even propagate plants and herbs such as basil and mint from cuttings.
Keep up with system maintenance in Step 8.
You can easily maintain an aquaponics system, as the most time-consuming part is feeding the fish; however, you can alleviate this task by using automatic feeders that can be programmed to do it for you.
To avoid common errors, it is important to feed your fish only an amount they can consume within five to ten minutes, two to three times daily.
It is necessary to test the tank water every week or two, examining the levels of pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates, and making any required adjustments.
