Aquaponics is Fun

Introduction: Aquaponics and Organic Certification Aquaponics, a hybrid system combining aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants without soil), presents a unique situation when considering organic certification. While it mimics natural ecosystems, the strict definitions of "organic" farming often pose challenges. This post outlines the general considerations and steps involved in building a small DIY aquaponics system, followed by a discussion on its potential for organic certification. Note that while the system may not meet stringent organic requirements, you can still use organic practices and inputs throughout your build and operation.

Step 1: Planning Your System First, begin by determining the size and location of your aquaponics system. Consider the amount of sunlight the location receives, the available space, and your budget. A small, beginner-friendly system can be built in a backyard or even indoors with grow lights. Decide on the type of system you want: Deep Water Culture (DWC), Media Beds, or Nutrient Film Technique (NFT). Media beds are generally considered easiest for beginners.

Step 2: Gathering Your Materials Next, you'll need the following materials for a basic media bed system:

Fish Tank: A container to house your fish (e.g., a plastic tote or aquarium).

Grow Bed: A container to hold the growing media and plants (e.g., another plastic tote).

Growing Media: Clay pebbles or gravel for the grow bed.

Water Pump: To circulate water from the fish tank to the grow bed.

Plumbing: Tubing and fittings to connect the fish tank, pump, and grow bed.

Bell Siphon or Timer: To control the flooding and draining of the grow bed (a timer is simpler for beginners).

Air Pump and Air Stone: To oxygenate the water in the fish tank.

Fish: Suitable fish species like Tilapia or Goldfish (start with goldfish for a small, introductory system).

Seeds or Seedlings: Choose plants that thrive in aquaponics, such as lettuce, herbs, or tomatoes.

Step 3: Constructing the System Now, you are ready for the build:

Set up the fish tank: Place it in a stable location. Add dechlorinated water and the air stone.

Position the grow bed: Place it above the fish tank, allowing gravity to drain the water back down. You may need to use blocks, shelving, or a frame to elevate the grow bed.

Connect the plumbing: Connect the water pump to tubing that runs from the fish tank to the grow bed. Ensure the tubing reaches the bottom of the grow bed to distribute water evenly.

Install the Timer: if not using a bell siphon, plug the pump into a timer. Set the timer to flood the grow bed for 15 minutes every hour (adjust as needed).

Fill the grow bed: Rinse the clay pebbles or gravel thoroughly to remove dust and debris, then fill the grow bed.

Step 4: Cycling the System Before adding fish, you need to cycle the system to establish a beneficial bacteria colony. This process converts fish waste into nutrients that plants can use.

Add Ammonia: Add a small amount of ammonia (available at most hardware stores) to the fish tank to mimic fish waste.

Monitor Water Parameters: Regularly test the water for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates using a water testing kit.

Wait for the Cycle: The cycle is complete when ammonia and nitrites consistently read zero, and nitrates are present. This can take several weeks.

Step 5: Introducing Fish and Plants Once the system is cycled:

Introduce Fish Gradually: Start with a few fish and monitor their health. Gradually add more as the system matures.

Plant Your Seeds or Seedlings: Plant seeds or seedlings in the grow bed, ensuring the roots are in contact with the growing media.

Step 6: Maintaining Your System Regular maintenance is crucial for a healthy aquaponics system:

Monitor Water Quality: Regularly test and adjust pH levels, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates.

Water Changes: Perform partial water changes (around 20%) regularly to remove excess nutrients and maintain water quality.

Feed the Fish: Use high-quality fish food and feed them appropriately.

Prune Plants: Prune plants as needed to encourage growth and prevent overcrowding.

Aquaponics and Organic Certification Considerations While setting up your system, consider how the following aspects of organic farming can be applied to your aquaponics setup:

Feed: Use certified organic fish feed if available. However, this can be difficult and expensive.

Pest Control: Employ natural pest control methods like introducing beneficial insects or using organic-approved pesticides.

Water Sources: Use clean, potable water to avoid contamination.

Nutrient Sources: Focus on the natural nutrient cycle provided by the fish waste. Avoid adding synthetic fertilizers or amendments.

Conclusion: Organic Practices in Aquaponics While achieving full organic certification for aquaponics can be complex due to current regulations regarding soil and inputs, employing organic practices within your system is entirely feasible and highly recommended. By focusing on natural inputs, pest control, and water quality, you can create a healthy, sustainable system that produces nutritious food without relying on harmful chemicals. Remember that your products could still be labeled "grown using organic practices," even if you don't go through the entire certification process.