Introduction to Aquaponics
by Kirk Gordon
Hydroponics and aquaponics are very similar in every way except
hydroponics requires the addition of fertilizer and there’s no fish
in the nutrient solution.
In aquaponics, plants and fish live a symbiotic life with the fish
feeding the plants, and the plants cleaning and filtering the fish’s
environment.
The fish waste becomes the plant’s food source, consequently, the
plants’ roots filter the water and keep the tank clean. In essence,
aquaponics could be considered a miniature ecosystem because both
plants and fish are thriving in the same environment.
Aquaponics offer benefits to both Gardener’s and Fish Farmers. Fish
Farmers may utilize aquaponics if they have difficulty disposing the
nutrient rich fish water, while hydroponics growers benefit from
having a constant supply of free plant food - eliminating the need to
purchase commercial fertilizers.
Unlike hydroponics or aeroponics, aquaponics is still a relatively new
cultivation technique. As more technology is developed and the process
is refined, it could potentially become a space and money saving
process for producing fish, vegetables and herbs.
In hydroponics and aeroponics applications, the nutrient solution
needs to be prepared - measured, mixed, and then added to the
reservoir. In aquaponics, there’s no mixing fertilizer involved,
making it a great way for beginners to cultivate plants. Only the fish
needs to be fed.
The number of commercial applications utilizing aeroponics is still
very limited. A number of universities globally are currently
exploring the science of aquaponics to advance this extreme
cultivation technique. Aquaponics is currently being used in areas
where the fish population is declining and/or their food supply must
be imported.
Author This article courtesy of http://www.hydroponicsearch.com -
Aquaponics Search Engine & Community.
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