Things you need to consider when choosing fish for your Aquaponics system
When people first start out in Aquaponics they know that involves growing fish and plants together. The professionals make it look easy and there is of information available on the internet. However much of this information is generic and not specific to the different climates that people are living in. Yet, climate plays a huge role in the types of plants and fish that will be suitable for your area.
In 2013 the ASC magazine featured an article written by Adam Cohen on how to choose the right fish for your Aquaponics system. In this article Adam raised 4 questions that every person should ask when purchasing their fish. These are: 1. What is the climate like where you live? 2. What are the regulations regarding fish in your state? 3. What are your goals for your fish? 4. What is the budget available for your system? http://aquaponics-how-to-guide.info/aquanewsletter/
In many cases, people have made costly mistakes with the fish they have chosen for their systems. For example: Choosing fish that are suited to warm climates and introducing them to cold climate areas. The expense of heating the tank to keep the fish alive was reducing the savings being made on growing their own food. It is far better to choose the fish that are native to your area, this way they are already used to the climatic conditions. Look for the species that grow in the lakes and ponds around your area and purchase these for your Aquaponics system. https://www.facebook.com/AquaponicsSurvivalCommunities
You also need to be careful about the regulations in your state. Some fish have been banned in certain states as they are considered a pest. You can be charged and fined if you have these fish in your Aquaponics system. In order to avoid that you can contact a member of the department of fish and game and find out for yourself. It could save you a lot of money, in both loss of fish and the fine you may have to pay. These are two of the top four questions that you need to have answers to before you purchase fish for your system. To find out more about the ASC magazine and our thriving Facebook community please follow the links in the article.