You have a desire to garden and own a pet fish, but you have very little time and money. What options are available?
To put it simply, let’s consider an aquaponics system, which combines hydroponics and aquaculture. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants in nutrient solutions and water without soil, typically with the use of gravel or similar materials. Aquaculture, on the other hand, refers to fish farming in controlled environments.
If you want to give either of these growing methods a try, but you’re not ready to attempt both, you can consider installing an aquaponics fish tank in your home.
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics, which combines aquaculture and hydroponics, addresses the key drawbacks of both hydroponic and aquaculture systems. It eliminates the requirement of supplying nutrients in hydroponics, as well as the necessity of waste removal in aquaculture. Instead, it establishes a mutually beneficial system where fish waste serves as food for the plants, while the plants aid in waste filtration.
Aquaponics can be made to be as complex or simple as desired. One option is to grow both fish and vegetables for consumption, while another is to focus on fish and plants for visual pleasure. The process is explained below.
Grow beds contain a medium such as gravel or clay pebbles, in which plants are typically cultivated using floating foam rafts or another method enabling circulation of fish water that reaches the water vegetables. This setup permits plants to obtain the essential water, vitamins, and minerals for their growth, while simultaneously purifying the water for the fish and restoring it to a neutral state. As plants take in this water, bacteria residing on the surface of the grow bed transform the fish’s ammonia waste into beneficial nitrates that can be utilized by the plants.
Your aquaponics set-up benefits fish by providing them with a constant supply of clean water. The constant filtration of water ensures that the fish do not become ill due to poor water quality, as the filtered water is continuously used to nourish your plants.
Aquaponics is a highly effective technique for cultivating fish and vegetables without the need for cleaning, fertilization, or weeding. It is also very energy-efficient thanks to minimal electricity usage and constant water recycling. Although specific types of vegetables and fish may have limitations, the following species generally thrive in an aquaponics system.
When considering fish, think about species such as tilapia, sunfish, crappie, koi, goldfish, carp, perch, catfish, largemouth bass, blue gill, as well as other fish like guppies and tetras. It’s important to note that not all of these fish are suitable for consumption, and should mainly be kept for decorative or leisure purposes rather than for agricultural reasons.
When it comes to plants, there is a successful opportunity to grow various vegetables such as lettuce, kale, swiss chard, and arugula. Additionally, herbs like basil, mint, and chives thrive in an aquaponics system. Furthermore, most house plants adapt well as they require minimal maintenance in this type of system.
Although other plants can be grown in an aquaponics system, those that tend to have higher nutritional needs can be a bit trickier – though not impossible. If you have a well-stocked, well-established system, you can grow plants like peas, squash, broccoli, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, corn, onions – even bananas and dwarf citrus trees! Because an aquaponics system is truly an all-inclusive set-up, the sky’s the limit in what you choose to grow.
The Basics Of Aquaponics
Aquaponic systems begin in the same way as any hydroponic growing setup. Plants are placed in a soilless medium, such as clay pebbles or rock wool. Water containing fish waste is periodically pumped from fish tanks over the roots of the plants. As the water flows through the plants, it undergoes partial cleansing before being recycled back to the fish tank. The most basic systems involve plants floating on the water with their roots dangling in it. More advanced systems include multiple levels of tanks and filters to extract the highest possible amount of nutrients from the water. It is possible to construct your own aquaponic system using a regular home aquarium and a bookshelf from a home center for approximately $110. Alternatively, you can purchase a complete kit for a 48-square-foot garden that includes a 140-gallon fish tank for around $3,000.
Plants like lettuce, spinach, and other greens are well-suited for a small aquaponic system as they have a low light requirement and can provide a constant harvest of leaves on a daily basis. In a bigger setup, crops like tomatoes, peppers, and strawberries can be grown. Additionally, numerous flowering and medicinal plants thrive in aquaponic gardens.
Tilapia are popular for eating because they are mild-tasting, high in protein, and affordable. They also grow quickly and efficiently, reproduce consistently, and adapt well to tank conditions. As a result, they are commonly used in fish farming and aquaponics. Carp, trout, and bluegill are also frequently chosen for these purposes. If you don’t intend to consume the fish, any aquarium species, such as goldfish or guppies, can be used in a small setup.
How to Choose the Right Aquaponics Fish Tank
When selecting an aquaponic fish tank setup, it is crucial to understand that it differs significantly from choosing a tank solely for fish in a basic aquarium. Several factors must be taken into account to ensure a suitable environment for the growth of both fish and plants.
In the beginning, it is necessary to ensure that your tank is completely waterproof. This may be already evident and obvious if you are cultivating fish. Nonetheless, it is also essential to examine areas apart from the glass section of the tank. Specifically, ensure that the regions surrounding the plumbing fittings are tightly sealed, and utilize rubber gaskets and silicone to prevent any air from escaping.
In order to create a suitable environment for your fish, the tank must be sterile and free from any toxic substances. This is because the tank will serve as their habitat. Furthermore, the fish will contribute nutrients to other organisms such as plants and bacteria in your system. Therefore, it is crucial that the tank has never been used for any other purpose that could potentially harm these organisms. Additionally, it is advised not to use metal containers as they can corrode and disrupt the pH and ammonia levels in your tank.
It is crucial for a well-functioning aquaponics system to maintain a careful balance between the amount of fish waste and the plant’s capacity to convert it into fish food. The proportion of grow bed to fish tank should be accurately determined for this to be achieved. The size of the grow beds should match the size of the fish tank. Once you have gained experience and knowledge about your aquaponics system, you may adjust the ratios to have two grow beds for each tank. However, it is essential not to rush and exceed your capabilities when starting out.
When considering the tank, it is important to consider the type of system you have. Take into account the size of the fish you want to raise at the time of purchase, as well as their potential growth. Purchase a tank that suits their needs. For instance, if you want to raise larger fish such as tilapia for consumption, you will need a spacious aquaponics tank. Tanks specifically designed for food-species fish should be at least 45 centimeters deep and hold 200 liters of water.
The shape of an aquaponics tank doesn’t have a significant effect on the growth of plants or fish. So, when choosing a tank, consider the dimensions, available space, and personal preferences. It’s worth noting that a round or oval-shaped tank can prevent dead zones with low water flow, and a short, wide fish tank with a higher water surface area to volume ratio can promote efficient gas exchange. This can save you time and money in maintaining the tank.
It is important to consider the location when placing a tank, rather than focusing solely on its shape. Avoid placing it on a weak structure or in an area prone to temperature fluctuations, such as in front of a window where drafts and direct sunlight can significantly impact the water temperature. When choosing the tank’s location, take into account the specific needs of your fish.
Top 3 Aquaponics Fish Tanks for Beginners
If you’re a beginner in the field of aquaponics, selecting the appropriate equipment may feel overwhelming. Take into account our top three suggestions for the finest fish tanks for beginners in aquaponics.
- Back to the Roots Water Garden
Back to the Roots is a simplified aquaponics system that is specifically designed for cultivating microgreens. This system is highly favored by novice hobbyists due to its user-friendly nature and effortless installation process. It comes with all the necessary components, excluding the fish (although the manufacturer provides a discount coupon for this purpose). Within a mere ten days, you can harvest your greens, and thanks to the included 100 percent money-back guarantee, you have nothing to risk with this affordable choice.
- AquaSprouts Garden
Although the AquaSprouts Garden is more expensive than the Back to the Roots, it is definitely worth the investment. This system can be easily attached to any ten-gallon aquarium, allowing it to be integrated with an existing fish tank. In contrast to the Back to the Roots, the AquaSprouts Garden has the capability to grow various plants, such as vegetables, decorative plants, and herbs, rather than just leafy greens. Additionally, this updated version of the product includes adjustable drain extenders, ensuring a quieter water flow, which makes it perfect for bedroom or classroom use.
- AquaTerrium Planting Tank
An AquaTerrium Planting Tank is another option for beginner fish enthusiasts who are mindful of price and space. This tank is visually appealing, as it combines a beautiful plant terrarium with an aquatic habitat for your fish. The package includes a 2.65-gallon glass tank, an aquaponics waterfall, a designated space for rocks, and artificial plants to keep your fish entertained.
Due to the presence of a waterfall that cleverly hides a water filter and pump, your fish will remain content and healthy, and your plants will receive sufficient nourishment in this tank. Although this aquarium is specifically designed for smaller fish and the growing system is primarily meant for small plants with leaves, such as herbs, greens, watercress, and English ivy, it remains one of the most visually appealing models available for purchase.
