Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi there,

I am doing a research project for my school, and for the project I have decided to make an aquaponics system.

I am planning on running the system on Barramundi (with necessary heating, insulation etc.) however, I still need to establish/cycle the system before I put them in.


I am planning on just using Goldfish to do so but I'm not sure how long it will take?

Are there better/faster fish to establish systems with?

Also, any recommendations on anything??

All help is appreciated,
Cheers, James.

Specs.
1000L IBC tank,
5000Lp/h pump,
Clay media,

Goldfish are good to start because they have a high tolerance for ammonia.
It takes about a year for a system to fully mature. Depending on your feed load, you should be able to bring a system up to speed in a couple months.

A good, realistic method is to start with a few goldfish feeding very lightly. Increase feeding rate over a 3 week period. Add 1/2 your fish starting with light feeding and increasing over 3 week period. Repeat with second half of fish.
Monitor Ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. If you see ammonia or nitrite spikes, slow down the feed rate. The nitrogen cycle is tied to your feeding rate, not exactly the number of fish you have. It's ok for your fish to be hungry while ramping up the system.