Mastering Biological Filtration in Aquaponics
Mastering Biological Filtration in Aquaponics: The Key to Success
Biological filtration, often referred to as the biofilter, is the cornerstone of any successful aquaponics system.
It’s not just crucial for aquaponics but also essential in aquariums and aquaculture systems.
The biofilter plays a pivotal role in converting fish waste into valuable fertiliser for plants, making it an indispensable component of your aquaponics setup.
This is what makes aquaponics the most sustainable form of gardening we have, everything is replicating nature, in a man-made ecosystem
What is Biological Filtration?
Biological filtration is the process where nitrifying bacteria convert harmful ammonia and nitrite from liquid fish waste into less harmful nitrate, which serves as a nutrient (fertiliser) for plants.
This nitrification process is vital for maintaining a healthy aquaponics ecosystem.
The Role of Nitrifying Bacteria
As discussed in previous posts about the nitrification cycle, two types of nitrifying bacteria are key players in this process:
Nitrosomonas: Converts ammonia into nitrite.
Nitrobacter: Converts nitrite into nitrate.
These bacteria need a dedicated space (home) to thrive, which is where the biofilter comes in.
It provides a large surface area for the bacteria to colonise, ensuring that they can effectively process the waste produced by your fish.
Importance of a Healthy Biofilter
A robust and well-maintained biofilter is essential for the health of your fish and plants.
If the colony of nitrifying bacteria is too small, it won’t be able to handle the ammonia load, leading to toxic water conditions.
Hence the saying 'you can never have too much biological filtration, but you can have not enough'.
This means that a large, healthy colony ensures that ammonia and nitrite are continuously converted into nitrate, keeping the water safe for fish.
Types of Biological Filters
Growbeds: In home aquaponics, the most common biofilter is the growbed. Filled with expanded clay or gravel, these growbeds provide ample surface area for bacteria to colonize while also supporting plant growth.
Check out this video to understand more about the importance of surface area for biological filtration in aquaponics:
The benefit of a growbed filter, is it doubles as a veggie growing area as well, whereas other forms of biofilters don't.
Dedicated Biofilters: For those who prefer not to use growbeds, a separate biofilter is necessary.
These often consist of bioballs or other plastic objects with high surface areas. These materials won’t break down over time and provide an ideal environment for bacteria.
Ensuring Adequate Filtration
Every aquaponics system must have adequate biological filtration.
You can never have too much filtration, as excess bacteria will simply go dormant until needed.
However, insufficient filtration can lead to water quality issues and sick fish.
Regular monitoring and maintenance of your biofilter will ensure a thriving aquaponics system.
The Take Away
Biological filtration is a fundamental aspect of a successful aquaponics system, this is what makes it an affective ecosystem.
By understanding and maintaining your biofilter, you can ensure the health and productivity of your fish and plants.
Remember, a healthy biofilter means healthy fish, and ultimately, a flourishing aquaponics ecosystem.
Learn More About Aquaponics
Check out the COURSES page to learn how you can get started with aquaponics now. Click HERE.
Want to get your Eyes and Hands on the FREE Online Aquaponics Essentials Course?
This is a great free resource to really understand how aquaponics is a sustainable ecosystem that will grow your organic food is a productive way.
You learn how all the 'parts' make up the 'whole', and helps to give you the foundations of understanding aquaponics.
Sign up HERE
Want to help out and Feed my Fish?? (They don't drink coffee)
Candy Alexander is a dedicated aquaponics enthusiast with a wealth of formal training in aquaculture. Over the past 15 years, Candy has been deeply immersed in both commercial and backyard aquaponics, honing her skills and expertise in this sustainable farming method.
Candy's passion lies in making aquaponics accessible to everyone. With a mission to simplify aquaponics, she believes that anyone can embark on this sustainable journey.
She encourages those new to aquaponics to "kick the tires" without a significant financial investment. Her guidance focuses on helping people start their aquaponics journey with small-scale systems, ensuring a low barrier to entry for newcomers.
Candy shares practical tips, step-by-step guides, and personal stories to inspire and guide readers on their aquaponics adventure. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a curious beginner, Candy Alexander is your go-to source for simplifying aquaponics and fostering a sustainable gardening experience.