Aquaponics, Just What is it?
Aquaponics is based on productive systems as they are found in nature. It can be loosely described as the combination of aquaculture and hydroponics and this is where the name aquaponics originates.
of each. Instead of adding toxic chemical solutions to grow plants, aquaponics uses highly nutritious fish effluent that contains almost all the required nutrients for optimum growth. Instead of discharging water, aquaponics 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 used indefinitely and will only need to be replaced when it is lost through transpiration and evaporation.There
are many different ways to grow in Aquaponics, two popular choices include media filled beds and deep water rafts. With media filled beds, plants are grown in a container that is filled with gravel, perlite or a fired clay pellet. The grow bed is flooded with water from the fish tank and then drains back into the fish tank. In deep water rafts, the plants are grown in holes drilled on floating Styrofoam boards.
The fish used in the system can be an ornamental variety or an edible source of protein. Some of the fish currently used in Aquaponics include: Tilapia, Hybrid Striped Bass, Catfish, Small & Largemouth Bass, Perch, Bluegill, Goldfish, Koi and many other varieties of fish.
Plants that have been successfully grown in Aquaponics include: Lettuce, Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers, Beans, Peas, Onions, Spinach, Swiss Chard, Chives, Herbs, Celery, Strawberries, Broccoli, and much, much more. 
Aquaponics allows you to provide fruit, vegetables and a healthy source of protein for your family. There is a certain sence of satisfaction knowing where your food has come from and realizing it is not only healthy, but sustainable and a wise use of our resources.
