Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Why does one need to remove the solids from an AP system? Don't they provide nutrients for the plants as well?

If one kept them from congealing on the bottom of the tank and had them constantly mixed with the water, would that be a good or bad thing? My understanding of the Living Machines systems is that the bottom solids are constantly churned up to interact with the bacteria and plants. Is this applicable to an AP system?

Thanks

Rpondpa, we don't remove solids in an AP system.... they're broken down by the process within the growbeds.

IF you are incorporating an nft channel into your AP system, then it's suggested that you either place the nft after the growbeds or employ a seperate bio-filter (ie drum) before the nft in order to remove the bulk of the solids so that they don't clog the root balls of the plants in the nft.

It's the breakdown of the solids that provide the nitrates essential to plant growth and trace elements required for good plant growth.

Haven't heard of the "Living Machines" system.... can you link to it or provide more info....

Is it an "off-the-shelf" AP kit??

Living Machines are complex, integrated biological systems used to clean water. They are wonderful things. Here is the wikipedia link.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Living_machines

Aquaponics systems without (edible) fish

Great idea though.... similar to greywater/watewater reed beds/ponds....