Aquaculture is raising aquatic organisms, most commonly different species of fish. It is often considered an industry that requires significant water, supplies, and space. But it can be much simpler than that. This post describes the benefits of having your own aquaculture system and the supplies needed to get started.
What are the Benefits of Having Your Own System?
Having your own aquaculture system provides you with a sustainable source of protein year-round. It also adds variation to your diet. Raising your own fish can also help reduce your grocery bill. Aquaculture systems can be set up almost anywhere inside, outside, on the roof, or even in the basement. They also require minimal labor once set up. Daily tasks include feeding and inspecting the fish’s health. Saltwater systems require more labor than freshwater systems, as the salt concentration needs to be checked frequently.
Types of Systems
Systems can be set up for both freshwater and saltwater (marine) fish. Some system types include:
Cage Culture – This system involves an already existing pond. It is the simplest and cheapest way to produce your own fish. Using a net and pipe, you can build a cage that sits in the pond and holds the fish. This method allows for easy harvesting of the fish.
Flow Through – This system involves a natural water source like a stream. This method is most common in raising trout since it is similar to their natural habitat.
Greenhouse Aquaponics – This system is usually located in a greenhouse. It uses plants instead of filters to improve the water quality for the fish. The fish then produce waste, which is used as fertilizer for the plants. Types of plants include lettuce and tomatoes. It is the most complicated system.
Home Recirculating – This system requires a tank or above-ground swimming pool. It uses the same water, so circulating the water through filters is essential to maintaining the quality of the water. This system can be set up anywhere, for example, in a basement, if water is available.
The picture below is a recirculating aquaculture system that one of the Livestock Project team members worked on in high school. At the time of this picture, the tank held many baby catfish.
Common Species
It is important to consider the species’ needs when choosing a species to raise. Some species, like trout, require cold water with plenty of oxygen. Tilapia can survive in warmer climates and with lower oxygen levels.
- Tilapia
- Catfish
- Perch
- Carp
- Bass
- Trout
- Salmon
Supplies Needed
The supplies needed are determined by the type of system you choose to set up. Some standard supplies are:
- A tank (could be something like a swimming pool)
- Water filters
- Water pump
- Source of oxygen (running water or aerator)
- Water quality monitoring kit
Water Quality
Monitoring water quality is essential in running a small-scale aquaculture system. Temperature, oxygen level, nitrate and nitrite levels, and ammonia levels are critical to watch to ensure the health of the fish. If it is a marine system, then the salt levels will also need to be monitored.