Aquaponics is a name of farming system, where we can produce two different types of crops by minimizing the land, water & manpower also. In general, the implication of effective & scalable RAS aquaculture with hydroponics is the main theme of any type of aquaponic system. Nutrient recycling through constructive microbes regulates the whole system functionally. In some part of India, different types of aquaponics system have been introduced experimentally. Usually, whole world wide three sorts of aquaponics technology are used for their good yield.
• Floating Raft Aquaponics System.
• Nutrient Film Aquaponics system
• Media-based Aquaponics system.
Floating Raft Aquaponics System: Fish rearing tanks with floating mediums such as Styrofoam, Polystyrene etc. are used to growing vegetable or fruit on them. Various fishes namely catfishes, Koi carp & prawns with Leafy vegetable & light-weight fruits are suitable for getting smashing production from this system.
Nutrient Film Aquaponics System: This system can be generated anywhere in any part of India even in arid or infertile land also. Rainwater storage tanks with non-corrosive rainwater drainage pipes function as lungs of the system. Shrub type & leafy vegetables with divergent kinds of carps are preferable species for culture them in this type of farming system.
Media-Based Aquaponics Systems: This farming technology supports flooding the plant media with a proper drainage channel connected with a fish tank. This unique type of farming system helps to grow different types of soil-based vegetables in a soilless medium. Indigenous fishes including Indian major carp, native catfishes with potato, brinjal, okra etc. can be grown in the systems by maintaining the proper water quality.
Conclusion:
Aquaponics has the potential to revolutionize modern agriculture by addressing key challenges and inefficiencies in traditional farming methods. Its closed-loop system conserves water, reduces waste, and offers a sustainable means of producing both fish and vegetables. The various types of aquaponics technology cater to different needs, from commercial ventures to small-scale setups. As we venture into the future, embracing aquaponics can lead us toward a more resilient, resource-efficient, and ecologically balanced approach to food production.
Dr. Rakhi Das,
Assistant Professor,
Aquaculture Department, SoAg
