How Aquaponics Works
A combination of aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (soilless plant cultivation) in a symbiotic, closed-loop system.
The Cycle of Sustainability
Fish waste provides nutrients for plants, and in turn, the plants filter the water for the fish. This creates a balanced ecosystem that requires minimal external inputs and uses 95-99% less water than conventional agriculture.
Fish in tanks produce ammonia-rich waste, which is toxic if it accumulates.
Beneficial bacteria convert ammonia first into nitrites, and then into nitrates.
Plants absorb the nitrates as their primary source of food, thriving without soil.
As plants absorb nutrients, they clean and filter the water for the fish.
Maintaining the Balance
Successful systems require monitoring key parameters to maintain optimal conditions for fish, plants, and beneficial bacteria.
Most systems operate successfully in the pH range of 6.4 to 7.2, a compromise between the needs of all organisms.
Water temperature must be kept stable and appropriate for the chosen fish and plant species.
Crucial for healthy fish and the aerobic bacteria that power the nitrification cycle.
Monitoring nitrates ensures plants have enough nutrients and water quality remains safe for fish.