Can Aquaponics be Mainstreamed through Decoupling?

摘要

Decoupling results when the recirculating water cycles of aquaculture and hydroponic subsystems are separated and managed independently. The rate of a one way water flow from the aquaculture tank to the hydroponic tank is based primarily on the plantwater use and evapotranspiration of the hydroponic subsystem. This allows water treatments to eliminate harmful microorganisms before they enter the hydroponic system. Decoupling overcomes certain barriers to adoption of aquaponics, such as a lack of optimum water quality for the fish, plants and nitrifying bacteria inherent in continuously recirculating aquaponic systems, a greater likelihood of passing food safety audits by chlorinating or otherwise disinfecting/sanitizing the hydroponic subsystem andincreased marketing options when the systems are decoupled. Environmental benefits of increased adoption of this sustainable food production technology include reduced water and fertilizer use compared to when these food crops are produced alone and a reduction or elimination of waste runoff when the systems are designed properly.