Aquaponics is gaining popularity as a hobby for cultivating fresh, organic food within the confines of one’s home. Aquaponic systems can be set up both indoors and outdoors in limited areas, requiring less water compared to traditional backyard gardening. Its dynamic and distinct nature makes it attractive to those who are uninterested in conventional gardening methods.
What is aquaponics?
Aquaponics involves cultivating fish and plants within a self-contained water system. The fish waste supplies nutrients to the plants, which in turn cleanse the water to enhance the well-being of the fish. With distinct fish and plant components, an aquaponics system synergistically maximizes its overall advantages.
It is crucial to have enough space for the fish component in order to achieve success. The fish tank needs to be of sufficient size to accommodate a water circulation pump, proper aeration for maintaining optimal oxygen levels, filtration for water purification, and adequate room for the healthy growth of the fish. In an aquaponics system, the water passes through two types of filtration. The initial filtration mechanically removes fish food, feces, and any other particles floating in the water. The second type is a biological filter that introduces beneficial bacteria responsible for converting ammonia, which is toxic to both fish and plants, into nitrate, a vital nutrient for plant growth.
The presence of plants in the aquaponics system plays a pivotal role in filtering the water, ensuring the well-being of the fish, and also presenting an opportunity to grow wholesome vegetables for the residents. Various plant production systems, such as deep well/floating raft, media bed, ebb & flow, or Dutch bucket/bucket systems, can be adopted, each requiring its unique management approach. While there is no flawless plant system, individuals can select a single design or combine multiple ones considering their expertise and available space. It is crucial to meticulously plan the aquaponics system design to achieve the best possible outcomes.
What plants grow best in an aquaponics system?
Many vegetables can be successfully grown in a balanced aquaponics system, including leafy greens like lettuce. It is also possible to grow fruiting plants like tomatoes, but they require higher fish densities to ensure sufficient nutrient concentrations for successful production. To grow more complex vegetables, experience with the aquaponics system process is crucial. Although the options for plant selection are vast, there are certain plants, like tubers and vegetables cultivated in conventional soil systems, that will not thrive in an aquaponics system.
Fish species suitable for aquaponics
Tilapia, which is native to Africa, is well-suited for aquaponics systems due to its adaptability to various environmental conditions and its ability to survive in low oxygen concentrations and resist pathogens. This fish species is also nourished by a diet that includes both plant-based foods and animals. Moreover, Tilapia breeds easily and is economically valuable due to its delectable taste when cooked correctly. In aquaponics systems that cultivate leafy lettuce, basil, chives, kale, hemp, or Swiss chard, Tilapia thrives exceptionally well.
Similar to Tilapia, Murray Cod is a type of fish that has the ability to rapidly grow in a controlled habitat. Nevertheless, these fish possess a ravenous hunger and must be adequately nourished to prevent resorting to cannibalism and attacking one another. This species flourishes in cooler conditions and can be harvested within a time frame of 12 to 18 months. However, they are susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections when confined in a densely populated environment.
Trout, a type of fish that flourishes in cooler habitats, is known for its nutritional value with high protein and omega fatty acids. Their diet comprises a range of fish, insects, and soft-bodied invertebrates. Despite their slow growth rate, it can take up to four years for them to weigh one pound. On a positive note, they can be raised both indoors and outdoors.
Catfish are well-suited for aquaponics systems due to their remarkable ability to acclimate to tanks and endure challenging conditions, such as contaminated ponds. They flourish in warmer temperatures and have rapid growth rates. Additionally, they display a non-territorial nature, enabling them to coexist harmoniously with other species and successfully reproduce with equally-sized fish. Moreover, this delectable fish necessitates a diet rich in protein.
Carp, an inedible fish, is well-suited for tank cultivation. Koi fish, a type of carp, are commonly kept in artificial ponds for their decorative appeal. Koi can coexist with edible fish, provided there is no conflict over resources such as nutrients and space. They are adaptable to various temperatures and help maintain the cleanliness of aquaponics systems by consuming algae. These fish can reach lengths of up to 2 feet and live for around 30 years. However, their abundant waste can disrupt the balance of the system.
