With a DIY Aquaponics tank you get a compact, easy to use, integrated system to grow fish and plants. The water from the fish tank circulates through the plant bed where the plants are grown. Aquaponics uses fish waste, with the bacteria in the plant bed converting the nitrites into nitrates that are used by the plants as their main nutrient source. The fish benefit from this process, as the water filtered by the plants provides clean water in which they can live and flourish.
The DIY Aquaponics tank is a closed system that uses the plants and the media in which they grow, to clean and purify the water, after which it is returned to the fish tank. This water can be recycled and reused on an ongoing basis. Only a small amount of water needs to be replaced to compensate for the loss by transpiration and evaporation by the plants.
The fish water is pumped and distributed evenly to the grow beds, by a simple system of pipes. The fish water feeds the plants, then filters through the grow bed that is filled with gravel/pebble stones, and returns to the fish tank by gravity or by pump. The clean water is returned to the fish tank for use by the fish.
Plants ideal for the grow beds include tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and other green leafy vegetables. Suitable fish include; Barramundi, Bass, Jade Perch, Golden Perch, silver Perch, Murray Cod and other Australian fish species.
Benefits of DIY Aquaponics Tanks
Simplicity of setup Compact system for backyards & balconies Minimum water usage Minimum chemical & pesticide use Minimum running costs Effortless maintenance Minimum weeding Production of fish & plants all year round Cost effective family activity or hobby Environmentally friendly