Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi All,

We're totally new to the world of Aquaponics. Would like to know of any good websites or books to give the correct information. Would like to build a system in our garden, have some space and would like to know where to buy the right equipment here in the uk. We are in North Wales so a Polly tunnel will be a must! Have read so many books and would like to get it right, Thank you in advance for your help.

Welcome to the forum Cazrene

The IBC of Aquaponics pdf is located here http://ibcofaquaponics.com/ and has some good information to get you started - It's a freebie from BYAP. The FAO has a document here - http://www.fao.org/3/a-i4021e/index.html on small scale aquaponics (I believe this is the right location you might need to look around as some of their links only lead to a partial docuement)

There is a ton of information on this forum and plenty of help if you need it. Some of our answers will depend on your plans and location so it might be good to draw out what you're thinking of and get some advice before you build. There's a Member's System section of the forum for this or you can ask in General System Discussions.

It's not rocket science. BUT is a science.

Start small, proof your concept. I'm guessing people stop after they realize AP systems take a lot of time to maintain and the stuff isn't cheap.

Good luck.

Science .... yeah a little or as much as you want it to be...... depending on the system/type of AP you choose to do. If one desires simplicity, then I recommend IAVs. Doesn't involve lots of monitoring, additional outside filtration devices and biodigesters. Depending on how iAVs is set up, there are very few points of concern where equipment failure could be an issue. So ...... lots of time to maintain becomes a minor issue.

As to the expense, iAVs isn't prohibitive. Pretty much a one time expenditure with very little ongoing expenses other than fish food, seeds or starter plants, and some coffee. The coffee's for you to sip while you sit and watch evedything happen.

Do yourself a favor and research iAVs for a better understanding of how everything works before deciding on which AP system is best for you.

Also, what kind of space have you got? And what kind of fish do you like to eat (if that's part of the plan)? Perch are good eating as well as trout, and both should survive year round without heating.