A combination of aquaculture and hydroponics, aquaponics systems are an increasingly popular farming practice. Taking all elements from fish farming and soil less farming, it aims to take the eco-benefits of both, whilst minimizing any negative aspects.
Essentially then, aquaponics systems aim to create a symbiotic atmosphere, in which both fish and plants can exist.
The plants are grown in containers filled with gravel, and fish in regular tanks of water; being fed standardized commercially available food. As the water in the fish tanks are cycled, it is pumped through the plant trays.
Bacteria in the trays break down any waste products from the fish, providing them with essential nutrients. This water, now purified, is cycled back into the fish tanks.
It is a process that significantly benefits both the plants and the fish.
The fish are healthier; suffering from fewer infections and diseases. They are less stressed than those produced by traditional aquaculture systems; thought to be as a direct result of the lack of pesticides, and other chemicals that leech into the water.
Plants tend to be healthier too; being bigger and producing increased crops. Again, this is down to the lack of artificial products used in their cultivation.
These are not the only benefits however; it is a far more cost efficient process to the farmer. There are no chemicals to buy of course; whilst plant food costs are all but eradicated. Soil borne disease is also not a problem; such is the nature of the farming.
Aquaponics systems are a great solution to providing organic foods, but more than this; they could also be the answer to providing a lasting solution to food shortage in developing countries. They could also be a powerful way to ensuring that the increasing world population is provided for in the future; in an organic and environmentally friendly way.
Learn more about Aquaponics Systems. Stop by James Morley’s site where you can find out all about Aquaponics Systems and what it can do for you.
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