Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

So I'm working on planning and building 2-3 systems in my small backyard. In my area Tilapia are illegal, which to me isn't much of a loss as I find them to be very bland. However Sac. Blackfish (Orthodon microlepidotus) a type of giant minnow are native, and supposedly very tasty as they feed on phytoplankton, rotifers, and small insects. (very high in omega 3), and I plan to have them in my largest pond I'm digging out, about 4' deep and 3682 gallons, about 10'x15' My other outdoor system which will be ornamental, will have Koi, and my indoor system will have trout. Yes, trout(rainbow) year long as I have a chiller that can keep the water temp at 65-70 even in the summer.

For the larger outdoor system I'm planning on using square hollow vinyl fence posts filled with Japanese matala filter mats for vertical grow, growing herbs. They will drain to a volcanic rock filled bed underneath for additional bio filtration, which will then feed back to either a sump or the FT. Still to be determined, since I plan for the FT to be a inground pond, a sump may be difficult. I'm thinking of a floater valve to stop the pump if the FT gets to a certain level.

The Koi pond I plan to be 2 feet in ground, and at least 2 feet walled above ground, with a sump dug out nearby.

The indoor system is nearly done, and since it will be awhile before my outdoor system is complete I'm looking at using it for a temporary housing for the blackfish for my larger outdoor pond. I just hope I can finish the larger pond before they outgrow the smaller indoor system, and in time to get the trout into the indoor system this year.

The main thing about blackfish is that they only feed on phytoplankton, rotifers, and small insects, so I will probably need several cultures if they eat enough to keep their water clear.

sorry cant provide the pic at this time

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Blackfish... sounds like you are really setting yourself up a challenge and for a long time....

Your comment on Tilapia is interesting as a report I saw suggested a flavor as meter than other common contenders..

Good luck with the plans.. and looking forward to seeing progress picies ...
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