Aquaponics is a sustainable food production method that combines fish farming (aquaculture) and soilless plant cultivation (hydroponics). It is based on the natural nitrogen cycle we know from nature: Fish excrete ammonium, which is converted by bacteria into nitrate – an ideal nutrient source for plants. While the plants absorb the nutrients, they simultaneously purify the water, which flows back to the fish.
Essentially, an aquaponics system is an artificial biotope. Fish, plants, and microorganisms work together in a symbiotic cycle that drastically reduces water consumption in the closed system. This process enables environmentally friendly production of fish and vegetables without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Pests are controlled through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) with the help of beneficial organisms.
Photoautotrophic nitrate cycle
Conversion of organic substances in the natural nitrogen cycle
Aquaponics mimics natural processes found in rivers and lakes. Fish excrete ammonium, which is converted by bacteria first into nitrite and then into nitrate. This nitrate serves as a nutrient source for the plants. While the plants absorb the nutrients, they simultaneously purify the water, which then flows back to the fish.
The combination of fish farming and plant cultivation is not a new invention. As early as the 13th century, the Aztecs practiced an early form of aquaponics in their floating gardens, the chinampas. In China, too, rice and fish have been cultivated in combined systems for thousands of years. Dr. James Rakocy laid the scientific foundation for modern aquaponics in the 1970s. He built a large-scale facility to research this innovative approach and is now considered the "father of aquaponics."
Aquaponics systems come in a variety of sizes – from small, self-built systems with IBC tanks for personal use to Large Scale Systemsthat utilize waste heat year-round to maximize productivity. Although the number of such large-scale systems in Europe is still limited, there is growing interest. Medium-sized systems,which can also be operated seasonally, offer a flexible solution for smaller businesses or community projects. Simple polytunnels are often sufficient in these cases.
An emerging trend is urban farms (vertical farms), which in the future could combine food production and waste management and promote a circular economy in urban environments. However, this innovative approach is still in the research phase.
Gelderner Straße 139
47661 Issum
info@aquaponik-manufaktur.de
Gelderner Straße 139
47661 Issum
info@aquaponik-manufaktur.de