Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

is there anything wrong with the floating styrofoam idea? all I would need is an air pump correct?

Floating styrofoam does work pretty well (I had to go back to it when the pump died), but I should warn you that it may not provide enough filtration to keep your fish in good health unless you figure out a way to plumb in more plants. I have an ongoing rising nitrate battle.