Aquaponics is a closed system that contains aquaculture, such as fish, with the hydroponic method of growing plants. Simply stated: the fish make the water dirty and the plants make the water clean! Of course bacteria are involved in the process turning ammonia into nitrites and nitrites into nitrates thus completing the nitrogen cycle! Aquaponics is also a viable solution for urban agriculture and can produce high yields in a small amount of space. Aquaponics is also a very useful farming method with respect to water conservation. It utilizes up to 98% less water than traditionally irrigate crops.
AQUAPONICS:
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Here is a great introductory video on aquaponics:
AQUAPONICS AT DEHESA: find below a slide show of our aquaponic progress throughout the year. Aquaponic systems require constant tinkering and maintenance to remain healthy and productive. There are several types of aquaponic setups including NFT (nutrient film technique), deep water raft system, and using a bell siphon to create an ebb and flow reciprocating system. We are also working on a vertical aquaponic setup that will be composed of hanging strawberry towers.