Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi,

Firstly, thanks to all for the advice to add 3 kg salt to my system to cure the sporatic fish deaths I was encountering. That has solved the problem.

My next query is regarding summer heat. I live in Perth, Western Australia and next week is supposed to be a real scorcher ... 34 on Monday, 36 on Tuesday and 39 on Wednesday to Friday inclusive!

What extra protection will my two grow-bed system require (as it is in full sun)? Should I cover everything with shade cloth? If so, the 50%, 70% or 90% variety? And if the 50%, where can I buy it?

Many thanks and best wishes for the holidays.

Bill

I use hessian in Kalgoorlie - you WILL require shade, or your fish will boil. No more than 50% really.

I agree, you will want some shade over the plants. 50% is what I would probably go for if I ever buy more in the future. I currently have 40% shade cloth over some parts of my system. Other parts of my system get a good amount of shade naturally from some trees.

If you can put more shade cover over your fish tanks that would be good but you still want them to breath some too. I have put black fabric covers over some of my fish tanks and the fish seem to appreciate it.

For places with really hot summers and really mild winters (as in ground stays warm even when frosts happen) sinking a tank into the ground has some really great moderating effects that are beneficial for both summer and winter.