Aquaponics in the Philippines Today
Who doesn’t know about Aquaponics in the Philippines yet? Aquaponics is one of the widely discussed topics in the Philippine agricultural scene. You might be left behind if you are into vegetable gardening, fish farming, or just a plain plant enthusiast and don’t know anything about this latest gardening trend. But don’t worry; in this article, we will discuss everything you have to know about Aquaponics in the Philippines.
Image by sippakorn yamkasikorn from Pixabay
Aquaponics Vs. Hydroponics: Which is best, and What’s the difference?
Let’s start here. Although we have a separate article dedicated to discussing things about hydroponics, let’s try and demystify these two popular words quickly, shall we?
These two gardening concepts or words have created a lot of confusion for many Filipino readers. We aim to clarify these things through this post.
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is a type of agriculture that combines traditional aquaculture (raising aquatic animals such as fish) with hydroponics (growing plants in water) in a symbiotic environment. In an aquaponic system, the waste produced by the aquatic animals is used as a natural fertilizer for the plants, and the plants help to purify the water for the animals.
This type of farming is sustainable and efficient, as it requires less water and land than traditional agriculture. It is also a closed-loop system, meaning that the waste produced by one part of the system is used by another part, reducing the need for external inputs.
What is Hydroponics?
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using only water and nutrients without needing soil. In hydroponics, the roots of the plants are suspended in a nutrient-rich solution, and the plants are typically grown in a controlled environment such as a greenhouse.
Because hydroponics does not rely on soil to provide the plants with nutrients, it can be used to grow plants in locations where soil quality is poor or where there is limited space for traditional agriculture.
Additionally, because the plants are grown in a controlled environment, the growth and health of the plants can be closely monitored and optimized. Hydroponics is a highly efficient and sustainable form of agriculture that can produce various crops, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Which is best?
It is difficult to say which method of agriculture is “best” because it depends on various factors, including the specific goals and needs of the farmer or grower, the climate and environment in which the plants will be grown, and the type of crops being grown.
Both aquaponics and hydroponics can be highly efficient and sustainable methods of growing plants, and each has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In general, aquaponics may be a good option for those interested in raising both plants and aquatic animals.
At the same time, hydroponics may be a better option for those looking to grow plants without the added complexity of maintaining a population of aquatic animals. Ultimately, the best method of agriculture for a given situation will depend on the farmer’s or grower’s specific needs and goals.
Aquaponics System
The setup is not overly complicated. The plants are typically placed over a gravel bed that is placed on top of the fish tank and serves as a backdrop for the display. A motor moves water from the tank where the fish are kept, which contains their waste, up to the gravel bed where the herbs and vegetables are planted.
The waste material in the water will be filtered out by the gravel, where the plant roots are gently growing. When the waste that has been collected breaks down, it can be used as food for plants and fertilizer. The primary concept is to establish a miniature ecosystem in which no media is discarded in any way.
Additionally, it is simple to clean and maintain. After everything has been prepared, the only regular task that needs to be completed is feeding the fish.
Because it requires only a little amount of room, it functions most effectively in an urban environment. Constructing it in the backyard or on the terraces, which receive the most sunlight, is recommended.
Tools and Materials Needed For Aquaponics System
To set up an aquaponic system, you will need the following tools and materials:
- A tank or other container to hold aquatic animals, such as fish
- A hydroponic system or another container to hold the plants
- A pump to circulate water between the fish tank and the hydroponic system
- A filtration system to remove waste and debris from the water
- Aquatic animals, such as fish
- Seeds or seedlings for the plants you want to grow
- Nutrient-rich water or a water-soluble fertilizer for the plants
- A light source for the plants, if necessary
- A heater or other temperature control system to maintain the desired water temperature for the aquatic animals
- An air pump and air stone provide oxygen to the water
In addition to these tools and materials, you will need a space to set up your aquaponic system, ideally a location with plenty of sunlight and good drainage. You will also need to regularly monitor and maintain the system, including feeding the fish and maintaining the proper water temperature, pH, and nutrient levels.
What are 3 types of aquaponics?
There are many different types of aquaponic systems, and the specific type of system that is best for a given situation will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the system, the type of plants and aquatic animals being raised, and the goals and needs of the farmer or grower. Some of the most common types of aquaponic systems include:
- Media-filled beds: In this type of system, the plants are grown in a bed of gravel, clay pebbles, or other media. The water from the fish tank is pumped into the bed, where the plants can access the nutrients in the water. The water is then returned to the fish tank, where the process is repeated.
- Nutrient film technique (NFT): In an NFT system, the plants are grown in channels or tubes, with the roots of the plants hanging down into the water. A thin layer of nutrient-rich water constantly flows through the channels, giving the plants the nutrients they need to grow.
- Deep water culture (DWC): In a DWC system, the plants are suspended in the water, with their roots hanging down into the water. The water is oxygenated using an air pump, and the plants are fed nutrient-rich water from the fish tank.
There are many other types of aquaponic systems as well, including hybrid systems that combine elements of different types of systems. It is important to research and understand the different options before deciding on the best type of system for your needs.
What is the best plant and fastest growing fish for aquaponics?
In general, fast-growing plants such as lettuce, spinach, and herbs are well-suited to aquaponic systems, as are leafy greens such as kale and chard. In terms of fish, tilapia is often considered a good choice for aquaponics because they are fast-growing and hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
Other fast-growing fish that may be suitable for aquaponics include catfish, bass, and perch. To ensure their success, it is important to research and understand the specific requirements of the plants and fish you plan to grow in your aquaponic system.
What are the advantages of aquaponics?
Is aquaponics better than soil?
Aquaponics and soil-based agriculture are both effective methods of growing plants, and each has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Aquaponics is considered a highly sustainable and efficient method of growing plants, as it requires less water and land than traditional soil-based agriculture.
Additionally, because the waste produced by the aquatic animals in an aquaponic system is used as a natural fertilizer for the plants, it reduces the need for external inputs, such as synthetic fertilizers. However, aquaponics can be more complex to set up and maintain than traditional soil-based agriculture, and it may not be suitable for all types of plants.
Ultimately, whether to use aquaponics or traditional soil-based agriculture will depend on the farmer’s or grower’s specific goals and needs.
Is aquaponic farming profitable?
Aquaponic farming can be profitable, but it depends on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the farm, the type of plants and aquatic animals being raised, and the efficiency and management of the farm. Because aquaponics is a sustainable and efficient method of agriculture, it has the potential to generate a good return on investment.
However, starting and operating an aquaponic farm can be expensive, and there may be significant upfront costs and ongoing expenses, such as the cost of equipment, supplies, and labor.
Additionally, the market for aquaponically-grown produce may not be well-established in some areas, which could make it difficult to sell the products at a competitive price. It is important to carefully research and plan an aquaponic farming operation before starting a farm to ensure its profitability.
What are the disadvantages of aquaponics?
Aquaponics is a highly efficient and sustainable method of agriculture that has many benefits but also some disadvantages. Some of the potential drawbacks of aquaponics include:
- Complexity: Setting up and maintaining an aquaponic system can be complex, especially for beginners. It requires a good understanding of both aquaculture and hydroponics, as well as the ability to monitor and manage the health and well-being of plants and aquatic animals.
- Upfront and ongoing costs: Starting an aquaponic farm can be expensive, as it requires specialized equipment and supplies, such as fish tanks, hydroponic systems, pumps, filters, and heating and lighting systems. There may also be ongoing costs, such as the cost of fish feed and water-soluble fertilizers for the plants.
- Limited plant options: Not all plants are well-suited to aquaponic systems, and some plants may not thrive in this type of environment. Before starting a farm, it is important to research and select plants that are compatible with aquaponics.
- Risk of failure: As with any farming, there is always a risk of failure in aquaponics. Poor water quality, disease, pests, and other factors can all contribute to the failure of an aquaponic system. It is important to carefully manage and monitor the system to reduce the risk of failure.
Quick Facts:
Which country invented hydroponics?
What happens to fish poop in aquaponics?
In aquaponics, fish waste is broken down by bacteria into nutrients that plants can use. These nutrients are then taken up by the plants, which helps to clean the water that the fish live in. In this way, the waste produced by the fish serves as a natural fertilizer for the plants, allowing for a sustainable and efficient system.
Does aquaponics use a lot of electricity?
Aquaponic systems can vary in their electricity usage, depending on their size and design. In general, aquaponics can be an efficient way to produce food, as the plants in the system help filter the fish’s water, reducing the need for additional filtration systems that can be energy-intensive.
Additionally, because the water in an aquaponic system is reused and recirculated, there is less of a need for frequent water changes, which can also save energy. Overall, while some electricity is required to run an aquaponic system, it can be a relatively energy-efficient way to grow plants and raise fish.
What is the best pH for aquaponics?
The best pH for an aquaponic system will depend on the types of plants and fish that are being grown. Most plants and fish generally do well in a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It’s important to regularly monitor the pH of the water in your aquaponic system and make adjustments as needed to maintain the optimal range for your plants and fish.
Additionally, some plants and fish may have specific pH requirements, so it’s always a good idea to research the specific needs of the species you are growing.
Do aquaponics systems smell?
Aquaponic systems can have a slightly earthy or fishy smell, depending on the plants and fish being grown. However, properly maintained aquaponic systems should not have a strong or unpleasant odor.
If your aquaponics system has a strong smell, it may be a sign that there is an imbalance in the system or that the water is not being properly aerated, which can cause the water to become stagnant and produce an unpleasant smell. Generally, it’s important to regularly test the water quality and make adjustments as needed to maintain a healthy, balanced system.
Can you use human waste for aquaponics?
It is not recommended to use human waste in aquaponic systems. Human waste can contain harmful pathogens and chemicals that can harm plants and fish. Additionally, using human waste in an aquaponic system would require careful treatment and handling to ensure that it is safe for use, which can be difficult and potentially hazardous.
Final Thoughts
In the Philippines, aquaponics has been gaining popularity as a way to produce fresh fish and vegetables in a sustainable and efficient manner. Aquaponics has the potential to provide a reliable source of food, especially in areas where soil quality or access to water may be limited.
Additionally, because aquaponic systems can be set up on a small scale, they can be a valuable resource for individuals or communities looking to produce their own food.
