Emerging Technologies in Aquaponics Food Production Systems

Aquaponics refers to a food production system which makes use of the principles of both aquaculture and hydroponics. It involves feeding nutrient rich aquaculture water to a hydroponically grown plant. The process is accompanied by nitrifying bacteria for conversion of ammonia into nitrates. The components of a typical aquaponics system include a rearing tank, settling basin, biofilter, sump and a hydroponic subsystem. Some common applications of hydroponic systems consist of deep water raft aquaponics, recirculating aquaponics and reciprocating aquaponics. Lettuce, basil, tomatoes and okra are some popular vegetables grown using this technique. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to aquaponics. It traces the progress of this field and highlights some of its key concepts and applications. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about emerging technologies in aquaponics food production systems.