Our aquaponics system utilizes the ability for nitrogen fixing bacteria that grow naturally in aquarium substrate to convert the ammonia and other nitrogenous compounds in fish waste to useful compounds such as nitrates and phosphates.  These compounds are then used to fertilize the plants that we have growing in our aquaponics system.

 

The water from the aquarium is pumped up through hosing that then flows through the upper troughs containing our plants.  The plants are rooted in a substrate of pea gravel while also utilizing rock wool as a horticulture growing medium for the plants to root into directly.  The water circulated through three plant containers before finally being released back into the aquarium using a P-trap type mechanism as can be found in a common household toilet.

 

In our aquaponics system we are currently growing lettuce, garden peas, and pole beans, as well as using it to support the growth of seedlings for various vegetable crops including radishes, tomatoes, peppers, and cabbage.