Top 9 Best Aquaponics Fish
Aquaponics is an amazing way to garden. And the workhorses of an aquaponics system are the aquaponics fish.
As discussed in other pages, Aquaponics is a natural process whereby fish are raised in an aquarium. Fish waste is pumped vertically into grow beds and then the waste material is naturally converted into nutrients for the plant’s roots to absorb within a grow medium. Plants roots, in turn, keep the water clean. This recirculating and symbiotic system is a truly fascinating yet simplistic way to garden!
But before you try aquaponics gardening on your own, you must first be aware of the nuances of this type of system. Lesson #1 is that not all fish are suitable for aquaponics and have the same requirements for survival. In order words, you should choose a fish species that be able to survive and thrive in an aquaponics system. With that said, let’s review some key factors you should consider before choosing the best aquaponics fish for the garden.
Considerations for choosing aquaponics fish:
- Ornamental vs. Edible
While there are many aquaponics fish which do well in aquaponics systems, not all are edible. Goldfish and koi, for example, are great ornamental aquaponics fish – just don’t eat them! Actually, you can eat them but we don’t recommend it.
- Temperature
Some aquaponics fish thrive in cold water, while others do well only in warm water. Be sure you choose a species of fish that is hardy and adaptable for your particular indoor or outdoor conditions. Adding water heaters to your fish tank is an option.
- Purchasing your aquaponics fish
Choose a species which is readily available to buy as a fingerling or juvenile fish. Selecting a suitable adult fish is also a possibility.
- Breeding
If you want to produce your own stock, select a species that is capable of breeding within an enclosed aquaponics tank.
9 Most Popular Aquaponics Fish
Here are 9 of the best aquaponics fish. We have included an ideal temperature range for each species. Please note the while most fish are able to tolerate varying degrees of the temperature outside of the ideal range, we recommend you keep your aquaponics fish within these parameters as much as possible. This will ensure that the fish are able to grow effectively (and stay alive).
Top 9 Aquaponics Fish: In Detail
Tilapia
Ideal Temperature Range: 72° – 86° F
Tilapia traces its origins back to the Nile River Basin in ancient Egypt. This species of fish is thought to be the oldest farmed fish on earth. Today, Tilapia is still an immensely popular fish to farm in aquaculture. It is also – quite possibly – the most popular aquaponics fish.
Why? For starters, tilapia is a great eating fish. It has a mild flavor, making it adaptable to many culinary styles. Tilapia is also a great fish for aquaponics beginners. They adapt to their environment and are able to withstand less than ideal water conditions. Other benefits of choosing tilapia include their fast growth rate (about 9 months from fingerling to harvest), ability to reproduce easily, and have an omnivorous diet (so they won’t eat your other fish).
One drawback to raising tilapia is the need to keep your aquaponics tank warm. Water below 55 degrees will cause tilapia to struggle. A constant water temperature of around 80 degrees is ideal. Adding a water heater is a viable option if water temperatures are too low, or you may consider choosing a different aquaponics fish altogether. Another possible drawback is their ability to breed quickly (every 4-6 weeks). If you have a small aquaponics system, be advised that it may quickly fill with schools of young fish.
With that said, tilapia is often regarded as an ideal aquaponics fish and worthy of consideration.
Trout
Ideal Temperature Range: 56° – 68° F
Looking for an aquaponics fish that thrives in cooler water? Trout may fit the bill. They thrive in temperatures ranging in the 50s and 60s, making them ideal for cool environments. This species of fish has a high food conversion ratio and grow quickly, although it may take up to 16 months to fully mature. In addition, trout are a desirable food source, loaded with protein and omega fatty acids.
Because trout thrive in cold water, some aquaponics enthusiasts alternate between raising tilapia during warmer months and trout during cooler months. Trout are also a popular aquaponics fish to raise in indoor garages and basements.
It should be noted that trout are not as adaptable as some other fish, as they require pristine water and high dissolved oxygen levels to thrive. Close monitoring of pH levels is also important. Another possible downside is fewer plants choices. Because recirculating cold water may harm certain plants, be sure to pick hardier plants varieties. With that said, raising trout may be too much effort for some, but the payoff at the dinner table makes this species a popular aquaponics fish.
Perch
Ideal Temperature Range: 70° – 82° F
Silver, Yellow, and Jade varieties of perch are popular aquaponics fish. Because they are adaptable to various conditions, perch make a good starter fish for beginners. Perch typically thrive in water temperatures ranging in the 70’s. However, they are able to withstand colder water down to the 50’s.
The diet of perch is primarily carnivorous, consisting of small fish, bugs, and shrimp. This may turn some off to raising perch because carnivorous diets involve more expense and effort (compared to fish who simply consume pellets and plant matter). Another factor to consider is the longer time frame to mature. Silver perch, for example, may take up to 16 months to fully mature from the fingerling stage. Overall, perch are a good choice for those looking for a tasty aquaponics fish and have the patience to wait for them to develop…and the budget to feed them their preferred diet.
Catfish
Ideal Temperature Range: 78° – 86° F