Combining elements from both fish farming, (aquaculture), and soil less farming (hydroponics), aquaponics systems aim to take the eco-benefits of both, whilst minimizing any negative aspects. With many benefits, it is a form of farming that is rapidly growing in popularity.
Essentially then, aquaponics systems aim to create a symbiotic atmosphere, in which both fish and plants can exist.
Grown in containers filled with gravel, the plants are fed with the water from the fish tanks. The fish, in regular tanks of water; are simply fed standard and commercially available food.
Bacteria, which are already present in the plant trays, break down the waste products contained in the fish tank water, which is used by the plants to get all their nutrition. Having been purified, the water cycles back into the fish tanks.
The process seems to be highly beneficial to both plants and the fish, and returns excellent results accordingly.
For their part, the fish are healthier and resistant to infections and disease. As a result, they are also less stressed than those in aquaculture systems. It is thought that this is because of a lack of chemicals that leech into the water.
Plants are healthier too; and return increased crops, for much the same reason.
The benefits do not stop here. The process is more cost efficient to the farmer, with no chemicals to buy, reduced plant food costs and no need for expensive treatments to combat infection.
Aquaponics systems are a great solution to providing organic foods, but more than this; they could also be the answer to providing a lasting solution to food shortage in developing countries. They could also be a powerful way to ensuring that the increasing world population is provided for in the future; in an organic and environmentally friendly way.
Want to find out more about Aquaponics Systems, then visit James Morley’s site on how to choose the best Aquaponics Systems for your needs.