Aquaponic Media Types
by John Yazo
Growing medias play a very important role in keeping fish and plants thriving in aquaponics. The media is what supports the plant's root system and provides plant life with a constant supply of nutrient-rich moisture. Aquaponics media needs to be chemically inert, porous, stable and easily replenished. There are several aquaponic medias, like coconut husk, expanded clay, expanded slate, gravel, peat moss, perlite, rockwool, sand, and vermiculite. Each providing there own unique characteristics and benefits in different proportions.
When planning an aquaponic growing bed, the depth of the growing media should be about twelve inches. This will provide enough depth to support most plant life and to encourage an excellent bacteria development. A twelve inch depth also should never need cleaning if a good healthy eco-system is established, it should be able to take care of itself. This media should also be inert, meaning not biologically active, wont decompose or alter the ph of the system. The most commonly used media being either gravel or clay pellets, and being inert allows for the best filtration of fish waste and overall system cleanliness.
If you choose to use gravel, it should be 3/4" to 1" in diameter for optimum air exchange within the media for the plants root system. It is also very important you know where the gravel is from and what is made of. Many gravel types can leach lime and other elements that can adversely affect the waters pH level and potentially kill fish, plants, and bacteria.
More on Aquaponics
If you would like to comment on this website or have any suggestions please feel free to contact us
