Aquaponics is a form of aquaculture where the waste that is produced by fish or other water animals supply nutrients for plants that are grown hydroponically. This purifies the water that it is produced in. Fish waste is an organic food source for plants that provide a natural filter for the water that fish live in. Microbes and worms also thrive in this arena. They convert the ammonia from the fish waste into nitrites. The nitrites are then converted into nitrates. The nitrates becomes food for the plants.

So what is aquaponics? It’s essentially a partnership of aquaculture and hydroponics. First time users of aquaponic methods must remember that it is essential to measure pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels weekly. Unhealthy levels can stress plants and fish. After those levels have been measured consistently for a month and are at the appropriate levels required for aquaponics to work, the system essentially takes care of itself.

Aquaponics can be effective for anyone, from the smallest of families or individuals to farmers with large plots of land or greenhouses that have money to invest in the technology. This melding of technology, growing awareness in the need for small farming, and the public’s growing desire to know what goes into what they eat will continue to fuel this new wave into the future.

Our information is a comprehensive overview and in-depth discussion of what aquaponics is, how to set up and run an aquaponics system, and what you may encounter. It is our goal to help you be better prepared to successfully operate an aquaponics system and to help you achieve your goal of harvesting fresh organic food.