Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I have finally completed my system build, and I would like to get some input from those of you who have more experience than I. I don't have pictures yet (hopefully soon) but my system is comprised of the following components:
1 - 450 gal fish tank
1 - 100 gal sump
2 - 3x8 x 11" sumps
2 - 3x16x11" float beds
4 - 3x8x11" media beds filled with extracted shale
1 very strong water pump (I don't remember the exact numbers)
1 very nice air pump (which feeds 8 lines)
If I am not mistaken my total system water supply is about 1900 gal.

The way it is set up is that the pump pumps to the media beds and the fish tank. The media beds (2 each) drain into the float beds via siphon valves. The float beds and the fish tank all drain back into the 3x8 sumps via overflow valves. The 2 3x8 sumps drain into the main sump where it all starts again.
My air pump feeds 2 airstones in each float bed and the fish tank, along with 1 stone in the main sump. I am using the last air line as a lift "valve" in the fish tank to remove solids directly into the main sump.
I have not added any fish yet (thinking about trout) or plants, but I have started cycling the system.
The system is housed in a 24 x 48 foot greenhouse and once everything is established we would like to add vertical towers and maybe even move everything to a solar setup to increase our self sufficiency.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Mike

IMO, I would do some fish now. A wet cycle is not the same as a fish cycle. In all of our markets we can buy live fish to eat. Toss a few in and let the fun begin. The beds need the fish waste to start the nitrate cycle. It can be done without fish but not as much fun. I also like to run a separate, additional air pump to the FT case the large one quits on me. I always have 2 running 24/7. There are a few members here that run on solar. I am sure you can find them.