Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Ok, the original plan was to do a chopped IBC similar to Freoboys. Didnt want to cut down the IBC frame because of future upgrade plans. Wrapped the frame in plywood and painted it white to keep the light out as much as possible but to also try keep the heat down. Put it into position and put the grow bed on top, stood back and looked at it. Crap I will have to climb onto the roof to pick the veggies.

Looks like the upgrade comes along sooner rather than later. Took the chopped up tank out. Partially buried the 700l part as a sump, Made a frame up at work to suport the grow bed above it. Started to cycle it up today with 5, 50mm comets. Just a quick question, 600l of water, 250ish l of pea gravel, how many goldfish should I use to cycle it up? Can get some silver pearch free if they would be better. Will post some pictures up tomorrow when I get a chance.

The plan is to put another full IBC tank into the clad frame, set it up as a CHIFT PIST. Then put more grow beds in to get the ratio at least 1:1.

About 10 fishes would be a good start... Definitely get some silver perch as the weather is warming up and they will start to feed. But for the first two months of cycling you need to only feed them lightly. Possibly just a small pinch of food a day. Keep the aeration up. And if you have test kit, post the results so that you can keep a record and people can help you tell what stage your system is at in the cycling process.

Sorry about the lack of pictures, I will get around to it when I get the main tank plumbed up. Getting about 20 - 25 silver perch this week about 75 - 100 mm long each to help the cycling along. Had the water tested this morning (got to love free testing at better pets and gardens) the results were
Amm 0.5-1
nitrites 0
nitrates 0
Ph 7.4 - 7.6.

Going to get some filter scum from a aquarium shop today to drop in the gravel, hopefully avoid any high spikes that way.
What do you guys think?
Cheers