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What is Aquaponic Farming?
Aquaponic farming is a sustainable agricultural system that integrates fish farming and hydroponic plant cultivation. The basic operation of this system is based on the conversion of wastes produced by fish into plant nutrients such as ammonium through bacteria. These nutrients are taken up by plants grown in a hydroponic environment, cleaning the water. Then, the purified water is sent back to the fish's habitat. Aquaponic farming makes it possible to perform both fish farming and plant cultivation by continuously circulating water.
What is the Importance of Aquaponic Farming?
The aquaponic system continuously cleans water in a cycle and provides an ideal environment for plant growth. This farming method has various advantages. In this system, water saving is at the forefront. Because the water used while plants take nutrients continuously circulates and is sent back to the fish's habitat. This brings along less water consumption compared to traditional farming methods. Additionally, chemical fertilizer use is minimized by using fish wastes as a natural fertilizer source. Thus, an environmentally friendly farming practice is created. The aquaponic system provides natural balance and ensures the control of harmful organisms. Thus, there is no need for chemical control methods.
High yield is another advantage of aquaponic farming. Plants grow rapidly thanks to the nutrients obtained from fish wastes. This method aims to minimize environmental impacts by contributing to sustainable farming practices.
How is Aquaponic Farming Done?
Why Aquaponic Farming?
Limited water resources and the decrease in arable land may cause serious difficulties in food supply in the future. At this point, aquaponic systems are a commercially viable method that offers new opportunities. It stands out especially with its sustainable high production capacity in areas unsuitable for production. These systems maximize waste management by combining aquaculture with hydroponic plant cultivation. Therefore, it increases environmental sustainability by using resources more effectively. Besides this, aquaponic farming offers a range of advantages compared to traditional farming methods;
98% less water use: Aquaponic systems ensure more effective use of water.
Zero wastewater discharge: Since the water cycle is closed in aquaponic systems, zero wastewater discharge is ensured. This means environmentally friendly production.
75% less energy use: Aquaponic systems consume up to 75% less energy compared to traditional farming, which provides energy savings.
No harmful pesticide use: Harmful pesticides are not needed in aquaponic farming, which allows for obtaining residue-free and healthier crops.
Used also in unsuitable areas: Aquaponic systems allow for growing plants without using soil, which provides the advantage of farming in areas unsuitable for agriculture.
High feed conversion rate: Fish have a better feed conversion rate than other livestock, indicating a more effective feeding system.
What are the Plants and Fish Used in Aquaponic Farming?
Aquatic animals used in aquaponic systems can be for consumption or ornamental purposes. Aquatic animals preferred in these systems are usually selected from freshwater species, and omnivorous or herbivorous species are preferred. Among the fish species, there are freshwater fish such as Cod, Silver Perch, River fish, Atlantic Salmon, Freshwater Perch, Rainbow trout, Grass carp, Silver carp, Koi, and Tilapia. The most commonly used fish species is Tilapia; other species include Koi, Goldfish, Angelfish, Guppy, Tetra, Molly, Carp, Freshwater Perch, Catfish, Blackfish, and Crayfish.
Among the plants grown in aquaponic systems are basil, coriander, parsley, garlic, lemongrass, mint, dill, watercress, lettuce, arugula, chicory, red lettuce, stock flower, sun plants, curly lettuce, cabbage, spinach, oriental lettuce, bok choy, tatsoi, amaranth, Chinese spinach, and flowering cabbage. Among the most commonly used plant species, lettuces stand out, but vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are also frequently preferred. In this way, a sustainable production is ensured by creating a harmonious combination between fish and plant species in aquaponic systems.
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