Selecting Species of Fish For Use in an Aquaponics
We’re going to cover some of the more popular species of fish for use in aquaponics. Before we get started, there are a few things to keep in mind. Not all fish develop the same, some grow more slowly than others, and some are better suited to be raised in a closed-tank environment. There are a wide variety of fish that are suited to aquaponic life, but there are no universal rules. You will need to consider the general conditions of your location, included temperature and weather.
Another very important point to think about before you get started is the reproductive habits of the various species of fish that you may consider raising. Some fish do not reproduce in a holding tank, therefor after each successful harvest you will need to purchase additional fingerlings (Small fish that have only grown to be about the same size as a human finger.)
Now, with that out of the way, let’s take a look at a couple species you may want to consider.
Tilapia
It’s worth noting that tilapia are considered to be an invasive species of fish. This means you need to take some extra precautions with them, not that you need to avoid them all-together. You need to make sure that you do not accidentally release them into the wild, as they will have a harsh and negative impact on the native species of fish they encounter. If they manage to make it into the wild, they’re known to produce a hybrid species when they mate with other tilapia.
The flavor of the tilapia fish is mild. They’re a freshwater fish that get along just fine in a holding tank, but make sure you provide some kind of heating depending on the natural temperature and climate of your location. They are a group of cichlids, and you can find them all over the world so you shouldn’t have any troubles locating some for your aquaponic project. As I mentioned earlier, some fish will not reproduce in holding tanks, but luckily tilapia are NOT one of these species of fish – they reproduce easily in a closed system. This, along with the fact that they feed off of vegetation, makes them an excellent choice for your aquaponic project.
White Bass
You may also want to consider the white bass species of fish. These fish are from the Midwest. They feed off of smaller fish and crabs, that is to say that they’re carnivores.
The average size of a white bass is roughly 9 or 10 inches, however some can grow all the way to 15 inches long. In their natural habitat, the white bass lays nearly one million eggs during their spawning season. After fertilizing the eggs, they don’t stick around – the white bass leaves the spawning area.
Being a fish that is relatively easy to catch and also quite delicious when it’s smoked, this is a favorite among people living in the Midwest, however it can be enjoyed all around the world and is certainly a worthy addition to your shortlist of potential species to raise.
Crappies
Contrary to what their name may imply, crappies are another great selection for an aquaponic system. They adapt very well to closed aquaponic systems, and they’re also a deliciously flavored species of fish.
The major drawback that keeps them from being up higher on the list is the fact that they require at least two years before they’ll begin the reproduction process. Unlike the white bass, the male fish will stay and protect the spawning area after the female has laid her eggs. Once the eggs have been fertilized, it takes about 10 days for them to hatch.
They are carnivores who feed on insects and smaller fish. You will want to make sure you don’t keep them in the same tanks as larger fish, because while they provide a delicious meal for humans – they’re also a delicious meal for walleyes and other large fish.
Armed with this information, you’re ready to start weighing the pros and cons and deciding which species of fish best suits your lifestyle, your needs and the plans you have for your aquaponic setup.
P.S: Please feel free to sign up for my free e-mail mini course to recieve more info about aquaponics. The mini course is titled “10 Essential Facts About Aquaponics.”
