Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hey all,
I'm Irish but living in Asia.I shopped about for bits and pieces and jerry-rigged up a micro system over the weekend, a 25l grow bed (rosemary, thyme and basil) and 45l fish tank with tilapia, located indoor next to a bright window.
The forum has already taught me a lot. I'm considering this system a test-run of sorts (sorry sacrificial fishies) to increase my understanding.
Great source of information, thanks for having me.

I'd love too see some pictures. I've been wondering how small you can go with this.

Photos

I had to google your forum handle, was really hoping it was something rude in Irish Gaelic...

Haha no, unfortunately not. Just a throwback to a younger, nerdier me.

Looks really nice!

+ 1.
I realy like that it's neat and tidy and the perfect gift package
Would you give us details Eg. Pump type and size Measurements What you paid for what. Success / failure

I like the way you have it set up in a drawer frame
Cudos to you

Looks good.

Only thing I might mention is the basil looks a little leggy. Is it getting enough light?

Quick update on present levels:
PH: 7.2
Ammonia: 0.5
Nitrate: 5.0
Temperature: 30

@ Colum,

Yeah I think you're right, it does look a bit desperate to get more light.
Unfortunately I can't change the location of the system just yet, but I've plans to move to a very sunny location in the not too distant future.

@ Eric,
I used 15mm for the upwards flow, and 20mm for the downwards drainage.
Pump is a Hailea HX-2500 650lph.

Transplanting plants that are established in soil over to the grow bed has provento be a difficult transition for the plants.
The thyme plant I had in there has died, and the rosemary is showing signs of dying too, apparently its a plant that not fond of having its roots too wet.

I've invested in some seeds for leafy green veggies, and will move them into the grow bed then they're large enough.

The basil that I moved over from a soil pot seems to be doing decently in the grow beds, although it could probably do with a bit more light as Colum mentioned.

Bugger -

Ph: 6.5
Ammonia: 1.5
Nitrate: 80
Temp: 30

I think I'm over stocked in fish (7 x 1 inch tilapia in 50l of water) and also probably under stocked in veggies, this week I removed the thyme and rosemary I had in there that were not doing well, and I bunged in a load of Lettuce and Kailan seeds.

The seeds have sprouted and seem to be doing well, but I'm obviously concerned about the nitrogen cycle levels.

I probably have no choice but to reduce my fish levels down to about 4, and see if I can increase my veggies.

Was thinking of adding something quick-growing like watercress in there to increase the degree growbed filtration?

In the meantime, I've done a water change today, will continue to monitor.

After a water change and not feeding the fish, we're at the below numbers today:

ph:6.5
Ammonia: 1.0
Nitrate: 40
Temperature: 30

Mmmm seems things are likely lacking light You might try reflecting some sun light in with a mirrored surface of some sort. Maybe a milar sheet on a frame.( survival blanket)