The co-production of plants with fish is a practice commonly referred to as Aquaponics. This technology has generated a great deal of interest and enthusiasm over the past few years, especially among urban dwellers wanting to be more self sufficient in food production. There are many different designs for systems as well as approaches to production from basic recreational use to high-tech commercial facilities. This page brings together research-based informational resources to provide a basic overview of the concept.
For the past several years, NC State has investigated some of the challenges and opportunities of aquaponic food production. This has included the development of a modest demonstration site at the University's Lake Wheeler Road research farm. As of this writing, due to issues with COVID-19, tours have been halted. However, for those interested in visiting, please contact Mr. Joseph Bursey, site manager (see "Aquaculture Team" tab). He will be able to provide an update regarding the facilities re-opening (likely summer 2021).
Educational Resources on Aquaponics and Related Topics of Interest
Aquaponics Procedures and Practices
- SRAC 5007: Principles of Small-Scale Aquaponics
- SRAC 5009: Greenhouse Crops and Cropping Systems for Commercial Aquaponics
- SRAC 5011: Vegetable Transplants in Aquaponic Systems
System Design and Construction
- SRAC 0454: Recirculating Aquaculture Tank Production Systems: Aquaponics Integrating Fish and Plant Culture
- SRAC 5008: Controlling the Greenhouse Environment for Aquaponics
- SRAC 5010: Building a Simple At-home Aquaponics System
Water Quality
- SRAC 0462: Nitrite in Fish Ponds
- SRAC 0463: Ammonia in Fish Ponds
- SRAC 0464: Interactions of pH, Carbon Dioxide, Alkalinity and Hardness in Fish Ponds
- SRAC 4600: Toxicities of Agricultural Pesticides to Selected Aquatic Organisms
- SRAC 4601: Measuring Dissolved Oxygen Concentration in Aquaculture
- SRAC 4606: Interpretation of Water Analysis Reports for Fish Culture
