1. Aquaponics is a relationship between plants and fish that is beneficial to both. What does each provide to the other? 2. What would kill the fish if they were left in a tank without any way of cleaning the tank? 3. What happens to the nitrogen in fish waste as it cycles through the system? What is used as fertilizer for the plants? 4. Why does an aquaponic system use only 10% as much water as an outdoor garden? 5. Why doesn’t aquaponics need pesticides, herbicides or other chemicals?

1 answer

1. In an aquaponics system, the fish provide nutrients for the plants through their waste, which is converted by bacteria into a form that can be absorbed by the plants. In return, the plants help filter the water for the fish, removing harmful waste and chemicals.

2. If the tank is not cleaned, the buildup of fish waste and uneaten food in the water can lead to toxic ammonia levels, which can quickly kill the fish.

3. In an aquaponics system, the nitrogen in fish waste is converted by bacteria into nitrites and then nitrates, which are used by the plants as fertilizer. This process, known as the nitrogen cycle, helps to maintain a healthy balance in the system.

4. Aquaponic systems use less water than traditional outdoor gardens because the water is continuously recycled between the fish tank and the plant beds. This means that only a small amount of water is lost through evaporation or absorption by the plants.

5. Aquaponics does not require pesticides, herbicides, or other chemicals because the natural balance of the system helps to prevent pest infestations and disease. The plants and fish work together to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that is naturally resistant to many common problems faced by traditional farmers.