The size of the tank in an aquarium or single-tank aquaponic system is not just about aesthetics or providing enough space for the fish to move. It also represents the chemical capacity of the system. This can be understood through a simple principle: when a chemical is added to a liquid, a small amount of liquid will be affected more significantly than a large amount. To give an analogy, imagine a cup of coffee. If you have a small coffee and add one shot of cream, the coffee will turn nicely tan and creamy. However, if you have an extra-large coffee and add the same amount of cream, it will only slightly lighten the color of the coffee.
Aquariums are not coffee and do not require cream. However, comparing the two can help illustrate the concept that even a small change in water quality, equivalent to adding a shot of cream to coffee, can have a significant impact on a small tank. Therefore, when maintaining a small tank, it is crucial to exercise caution in terms of the quantity of fish, food, and frequency of water changes or additions. Minor errors can rapidly disrupt the system, highlighting the significance of maintaining stability for the well-being of the aquatic environment.
If you know how aquarium-keeping works, then you are aware that the health of your system relies heavily on your biofilter. The biofilter consists of beneficial bacteria that reside in your aquarium. These bacteria have limitations on their growth density and consumption speed. Hence, the size of your biofilter determines the rate at which waste can be processed, preventing it from becoming harmful to your fish. Additionally, a smaller volume of water is susceptible to greater fluctuations in mineral content due to evaporation. This may result in significant variations in salinity and hardness. Managing changes in pH levels will also be more challenging in a smaller volume of water.
In addition, there is the issue of stocking a compact system. Individuals often desire a complete and captivating aquarium, however, it becomes simpler to exceed limits as the tank size decreases. A group of tetras that may thrive in a 10-gallon tank may rapidly become ill or perish in a smaller 2- or 5-gallon novelty aquarium.
If you’re willing to stock lightly and closely monitor your small tank, you can indeed keep one. Small tanks, when well-maintained, can be visually stunning and bring life to small spaces. Some saltwater aquarists maintain “nano-reefs,” which are tiny reef tanks of five gallons or less. Experienced aquarists successfully grow corals, plants, and various fish and invertebrate populations in small spaces. Aquariums of different sizes can be impressive. However, it’s important to remember that complex small aquariums require expertise. They present challenges and demand dedication and care. Therefore, they are not suitable for kids or for decorative purposes in places like offices, classrooms, or other locations where they may not receive adequate attention.
If you are considering aquaponics, there are additional factors to consider. In an aquaponic system, the input of nutrients must be balanced with the plants’ use of nutrients. These nutrients must first be processed by the fish and then by the biofilter. However, there are limitations to how much the fish and bacteria can consume. In very small systems, it can be challenging to provide sufficient nutrients for healthy plant growth, as the fish and biofilter may not be able to keep up with the demands of rapidly growing herbs and vegetables. This can result in plants being undernourished and the temptation to overfeed the fish in an attempt to fertilize the water, which can lead to pollution. Consequently, very small aquaponic systems, typically less than ten gallons, will likely require regular maintenance similar to a small aquarium, as the limited plant growth they can support may not be consistent enough to maintain stable water quality. Furthermore, tiny aquaponic gardens may disappoint aspiring farmers as they will not be able to yield much produce.
If you want to have success with aquariums, it is generally easier when you have more water. A larger tank will provide a greater margin for error and more space to accommodate the plants and fish that interest you. Having a larger tank also allows for more time to identify and address any issues that may arise, such as a broken filter or children overfeeding. It is not necessary to go for an extremely large tank, as not everyone has the space for a 55-gallon tank. However, if you have experienced problems with your aquarium in the past, it may be worth considering upgrading to a bigger size.
How Big of a Tank Do You Need for Aquaponics?
The size of the tank required depends on the scale of the aquaponics project one wishes to set up. A larger aquaponics system will necessitate a greater amount of water to accommodate the plants and fish harmoniously. Sufficient water supply will additionally provide ample living space for the fish, thereby minimizing disease transmission and stress, thereby promoting their well-being.
The size of your aquaponics tank will be determined by several factors, which consist of:
The size of the grow bed.
The size of your aquaponics tank will be determined by the desired size of the grow bed. To determine this, you need to have knowledge of the system’s design and size. It is important to remember that fish waste plays a crucial role in this system by providing nutrients to the plants. Additionally, the plants are beneficial to the fish by filtering impurities from the water.
The number of fish and plants that grow is influenced by the water volume in the fish tank. The presence of high ammonia concentration in the water is detrimental to fish growth, indicating that a grow bed is necessary to facilitate water recycling from the tank.
The ratio of the grow bed to the aquaponics tank is usually 1:1 to balance their volumes, but you can adjust this ratio based on factors such as your location, the type of fish being used, and the specific system in place.
Choosing the right type of fish for the setup.
The size of the aquaponics tank needed for this system will be determined by your choice of fish. Opt for a larger tank if you are growing edible fish, as this will enhance stability. Additionally, this tank must be constructed using food-safe materials and be sufficiently sturdy. It should possess a minimum depth of 18 inches and hold approximately 50 gallons of water. To determine the ideal fish tank size, it is advisable to consider the fish-to-plant ratio.
If you want to cultivate aquarium fish, the tank and system needed will be smaller. It is important to remember that these fish serve merely as decorations or pets and do not necessitate a larger tank for their growth.
When considering the text below, it is important to keep in mind that the size of the tank will impact the well-being of the type of fish you choose to cultivate. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution in this regard. Tilapia is a popular choice among individuals due to their low maintenance requirements and rapid growth rate.
The quantity of fish that you introduce to the system.
The size of the aquaponics tank needed for this type of farming will be influenced by the number of fish you choose. In addition to the quantity, it is important to consider the length and weight of the fish you plan to rear. Keep in mind that larger fish will require more space. Therefore, if your goal is to cultivate a large number of big fish, the capacity of your hydroponic fish tank will need to be expanded.
If you choose a smaller tank with a capacity of 50 gallons or less, it is recommended to have one 1-inch fish for each gallon of water. Therefore, if your tank can hold 20 gallons, it is ideal to have 20 1-inch fish in the tank.
If your tank is larger than 50 gallons, you can stock 1 lb. of fish for every 5 or 10 gallons of water. Alternatively, you can have 1 or 2 fish for every 10 gallons of water. For instance, if you choose tilapia and decide on a 500-liter tank, you will have approximately 40 fully grown fish available.
It is not recommended to have 1 lb. fish for every 3 gallons of water as it will cause the fish to experience more stress, promote the spread of diseases, and disrupt the balance of the system.
How Do I Make an Aquaponics Fish Tank?
If you prefer not to purchase a pre-made aquaponics tank, it is beneficial to create one that suits your requirements. Repurposing a recycled bathtub, barrels, or IBC tanks is another option. The following steps explain how to construct a recycled barrel aquaponics tank.
- Materials Needed
- Two barrels
- Six concrete blocks
- Spirit level
- Some plywood
- Shovel
- Sikaflex in caulking gun
- Seedlings
- Fish
- Water
Step To Step Guide on How to Make the Aquaponics Tank
If you decide to engage in a DIY project, it is highly recommended that you acquire knowledge about all the steps involved to prevent any mishaps. Prior to utilizing the barrels, it is crucial to ensure their cleanliness without any remnants of chemicals. The initial barrel will be utilized for cultivating fish, whereas the second barrel will be designated for growing plants.
If you are not using a water pump, it is necessary to raise the aquaponics tank in order to maintain continuous water flow for this project. However, it is also possible to have the grow bed positioned above the fish tank as long as it allows for water flow.
- The first step you need to do is make a hole in the tank where the water pump tube will pass through to the grow bed.
- Then fix the aquarium water pump into the fish tank (use gutters if you’re creative enough).
- Allow the connector tube to pass through the holes you made in the grow bed. Also, install a connector (valve and bulkhead between the tank and grow bed).
- After that, install the grow bed (second barrel) above the fish tank. Make holes at the bottom of the grow bed where water will drain into the tank. Also, have a hole for the tube for the water pump to pass through.
- Add growing medium into the grow bed. But this is after making holes in the tubes.
- Then add water to the hydroponic fish tank.
- Introduce your fish into the system.
- Do test the water pH level to ensure it’s not more than 7.0 or less to avoid imbalance.
It is recommended to avoid placing the hydroponic fish tank in direct sunlight due to the potential for algae growth. Having algae on the tank will necessitate the task of removing them or adding a fish species that consumes them, resulting in increased costs.
If you are a beginner, it is advisable to create a larger aquaponics tank as it allows you to make mistakes and learn from them. This is because the speed at which things occur in a larger system is not faster.
What To Consider When Choosing Your Aquaponics Tank Size
Before deciding on the appropriate tank size, you must take the following factors into consideration:
The form of the tank.
Although it is possible for any aquaponics tank design to function effectively with a round tank with a flat bottom, a round tank offers advantages such as even water circulation and the creation of a suitable water current that enhances fish well-being when they swim against it.
In this setup, the oxygen level increases, making waste management easier. This demonstrates that fish can thrive in smaller round tanks with a flat bottom. However, square and rectangular fish tanks are also suitable options.
The tank’s cover and shading
The size of the aquaponics tank is influenced by the presence of fish cover and shading. A larger tank with a round shape and a flat bottom is not preferable if it does not have a cover. Without a cover, the fish can escape and dirt can enter the tank. In addition, fish prefer shaded areas and do not enjoy staying in well-lit environments, so shading provides a suitable atmosphere for them.
When seeking to shield light from the hydroponic fish tank, agricultural shading nets can be used, and a fishing net may serve as a suitable cover.
Composition of Material.
The best option for a fish tank is fiberglass or plastic, as they are strong and durable. Additionally, these materials are lightweight, making the DIY project easier. However, it is important to check for any leaks in the tank to prevent a reduction in water volume, even if the tank is larger.
There should be no harmful chemicals in it that can harm your fish and cause you financial loss.
A hydroponic fish tank that is built with sturdy materials has the capacity to hold larger amounts of water and can withstand the movement of fish. This means that a resilient tank with a substantial water volume can accommodate a greater number of fish compared to a larger but more delicate tank.
Our Verdict?
The success of your smart farming depends on the aquaponics tank you choose. By selecting a bigger tank, you will be able to accommodate a larger number of fish and cultivate more vegetables. Consequently, this will generate greater income and promote healthy eating habits.
When determining the size of the aquaponics tank, it is important to consider the material composition, shape of the tank, and the presence of cover or shading, as these factors can impact the quantity of fish in the system. However, the crucial factors that determine the size of the tank, as explained in this guide, are the type and quantity of fish you have, as well as the grow bed.
