Aquaponics System Design Calculator
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing the key aspects of aquaponics system design:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fish Tank | – Size: 10 liters per kg of fish1 – Material: Non-toxic, inert (e.g., food-grade plastic, glass, fiberglass)3 |
| Grow Beds | – Ratio: 1:1 or 2:1 (grow bed to fish tank volume)3 – Material: Non-toxic, inert (e.g., food-grade plastic, fiberglass)3 |
| Water Pump | – Capacity: Able to circulate entire system volume once per hour5 – Type: Submersible or inline (inline for larger systems)4 |
| Filtration | – Mechanical filter: For solid waste removal – Biofilter: For nitrification (converting ammonia to nitrates)14 |
| Aeration | – Air pump with air stones or diffusers – Aim for dissolved oxygen levels >5 mg/L5 |
| Growing Media | – Types: Gravel, expanded clay, lava rock – Size: Large enough to avoid clogging, small enough for root growth3 |
| Plant Types | – Leafy greens: Lettuce, kale, spinach – Herbs: Basil, mint, cilantro – Fruiting plants: Tomatoes, strawberries (in suitable systems)1 |
| System Types | – Media Bed (Flood and Drain) – Deep Water Culture (DWC) – Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) – Vertical Systems – Dutch Bucket46 |
| Water Quality | – pH: 6.8-7.2 – Temperature: Depends on fish and plant species – Ammonia and Nitrite: Near 0 ppm – Nitrate: 5-150 ppm |
| Fish Density | – Generally 1 kg of fish per 20-40 liters of water (varies by species) |
| Plumbing | – PVC pipes for water circulation – Valves for flow control – Standpipes or bell siphons for media beds4 |
| Lighting | – Natural light or artificial grow lights for indoor systems |
| Climate Control | – Greenhouse or indoor setup for temperature-sensitive species – Heating/cooling systems as needed1 |
| Monitoring Equipment | – Thermometer, pH meter, dissolved oxygen meter, nitrate test kit |
Remember that specific design elements may vary based on the scale of the system (home or commercial), local climate, and the chosen fish and plant species. Always consult with experienced aquaponics practitioners or experts for tailored advice on system design