Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi all,

I've been constructing a new aquaponics system in southern Bhutan. I have a few different potential water sources, but none of them offer a clear best choice. I've tested pH, KH and EC in all sources. Our options are:

Source 1 (river):
pH: 8.56
KH: 10 dKH
EC: 0.34 mS

Source 2 (stream):
pH: 8.46
KH: 7 dKH
EC: 0.24 mS

Source 3 (spring):
pH: 7.71
KH: 8.5 dKH
EC: 0.25 mS


Source 1 seems like the worst choice, but 2 and 3 each have their pros and cons. Source 2 has less carbonate, but higher pH. Source 3 has lower pH, but higher carbonate. Currently, I'm set-up to use source 2, but it's possible to switch to source 3 without huge heartache. Any recommendations from the community? Thanks in advance.

I have the ability to test GH for these sources if that will provide helpful additional information. I tested it once, but didn't keep track in my running around.

Let us know if you want to know more about our design and plans.

I think both source 2 and 3 would be OK. Perhaps let water sit for a couple of weeks if it's going to be from source 2 to let any potential pathogens die off before introducing the fish . Water from source 2 would probably be fine to use straight away.

What kind of system is it going to be?