A fast-increasing world population means a rapid urbanization process, which is taking over what was once fertile farmlands. In general, urban sprawl, droughts, and arid climate are causing food shortages. How are we going to manage to grow enough food to keep up and what’s the solution for severe global shortages?
What Is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics refers to the relationship between water, aquatic organisms, bacteria, nutritional dynamics, and plants that grow together in water areas worldwide.
Explained in detail, an artificial ecosystem is created in which fish are fed, their waste is broken down into more absorbable forms by beneficial bacteria and the converted waste is then pushed through the system, where it provides food for plants. The plants act as a natural filter, cleaning the water, which is then recirculated through the aquaponic system.
Making Aquaponics Work
Aquaponics is a blending of three important conditions, combining fish farming with hydroponics (soilless gardening) in the presence of beneficial bacteria. Proper system function relies on the nitrogen cycle. Ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate are the main biological toxins that occur in an aquarium, so the nitrogen cycle must work effectively to convert and remove all of these waste by-products.
Environmental Benefits
Aquaponics is also advantageous in that it preserves water resources. Plants absorb the fish waste, acting as an organic filter. In this way, water can be continuously recirculated, only periodically needing a fill-up to make up for evaporation and plant transpiration.