The Theory

The following diagram roughly summarises the theory of Aquaponics.

Essentially the fish and the plants have a symbiotic relationship.

The above diagram is for a large multi bed system (or food farm).

1. You feed the fish.

2. Fish and fish waste produce Ammonia in the water.  Ammonia is harmful to the fish, and if not removed, it will eventually kill the fish.

3. Pump removes the fish waste and cycles the dirty water to the grow beds.

4. Beneficial bacteria living in the grow beds converts the Ammonia into Nitrites, and Nitrites into Nitrates.

5. Plants (vegetables) living in the grow beds remove the Nitrates.

6. Clean water drains from the beds.

7. Clean water is returned to the fish tank.

Smaller systems only require the use of the single tank and pump, as the water from the grow beds gravity feeds back to the main fish tank, thus no requirement for a sump tank and pump.

Small systems can be designed to fit down the side of houses or for small townhouse courtyards.