Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hey I'm starting on my first Aquaponics system and I was looking for any help/tips/comments/suggestions/etc.
I've read that starting bigger is the way to go some I starting that way.

Supplies list:
(4) 275 gallon IBC totes (top quarter of each for grow beds) (3 tanks as FTs and one as a ST)
(2) 55 gallons (SF)
(2) 200 gph water pumps
PVC pipping. 1/2", 1", 2", and 4"
Tilapia frying from a friend

My picture is to large to upload. I can email it to show my layout.

Sounds HUGE! NICE

Flood and drain? Any reason for the two pumps? Want are the 2" and 4" pipes for?

Almost certain you will want bigger pumps than 200 gph.

I'm in. sounds exciting lol.

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The system will be an overflow. The highest point will be the FT, drain to the SF, make it's way to the GB, and finally drain into the ST be the lowest point. The 4" PVC will be for the tilapia in the FT. The 2" tubing will be for the overflow from one tank to another.
The (3) FT totes will be joined together making it one 600 gallon FT. The 55 gallon SF will filter the 600 gallon FT. From the SF, the (4) GBs will be around 300 gallons. The pea rock will stand about 9" high and the highest point of water in the GBs will be around 7" high and finally draining into the ST. So actual circulation will be around 200 gallons.
I'm not sure if my maths correct.
I'm typing on my iphone currently so it's hard to type a lot.

How can I upload pictures with lower amounts of pixels? My phone pictures take too many pixels

I always email it to myself the open it in paint and resize.


There may be easier ways...

Far from an expert so take my advise for what you paid for it

If you haven't cut your IBC's yet - reconsider your dimensions. From what I have read here, you should have at least 12" of media depth with the water level 1 to 2" below the surface of the gravel. That will make your FT and ST volume a little less. So, I would not cut them less than 10-11" (mounding media for depth) with 12" being a target so you don't spill your media every time you dig around in it.

Yes the IBC totes have already been cut standing at 11.5" tall. More media can be be added.
I hope to have pictures up in the next few days.

Please keep the comments coming.