Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hello!
I'm pretty much new in the world of acuaponics. I haven't built a system yet since i don't have such a big budget, but I'm planning to do a kind of protoype soon.
I'm most interested in acuaponics because i want to turn a family territory(about 1200 m2) into a small farm for local businesses.
My primary objective now is to build a prototype to learn everything from scratch (I'm more of a kinnectic-learning person). I would be glad for any kind of tip you could give me!

pd: my planned prototype is going to be pretty small, for up to 2-3 plants...still don't know what pump could be powerful enough...

Pura Vida!

I would like to know what can i do to get started with a budget below $200 to make a good prototype project...
I already got the pipes, the fish tank and the place where I'm going to be putting my plants (a 90cmX30cm area), but I'm having problems deciding what kind of pump i should use (GPH is the main concern i supposed, but i don't know how to choose the correct one for my setup)

Go on you tube and look up Aquaponic barrel system, chop &flip style. The one by Rob bob''s Aquaponic is the best one I think and is a very informational channel in general.

Hi MoralesCR,

I'm also in Costa Rica and am looking to start a small commercial operation as well, in the San Isidro, Heredia area. I have some experience in hydroponics but not too much in aquaponics so I'd love to hear more about your plans!

In terms of pumps, it sounds like a small aquarium pump would do just fine for your prototype. You can control the flow two ways. Most pumps have a rotating inlet valve but you can also just put an inline valve on the output hose and control the flow that way.

By any chance do you know where I might find some pure silica (or quartz) sand? I was wondering about somewhere in Cartago since there seem to be a few quarries there.

Cheers,
Jeff

Hello MoralesCR and Jeff, my name is Carlos and I also live in Costa Rica.

I am newbie on aquaponics as well, I haven`t begin with my system. I have seen your posts and I would like to know if you were able to start your projects. How`s it going?

So far I am studying and analyzing all the information available, to avoid making a lot of mistakes when buidling my first aquaponic system.

I would love to hear from you, and maybe to share information locally and help us with our projects

Regards,
Carlos