Technology
Aquaponics is fairly new in respect of common application. The practice of using fish and plants together while recycling water has been done since the time of Nebuchadnezzar and the hanging gardens of Babylon . Aquaculture (raising fish) and Hydroponics (growing plants in water), are relatively new industries, gaining serious momentum during the past 50 years. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) is even more recent as a viable technology for food production.
Research & Development
Early on in research of RAS, experiments were carried out to determine how efficient aquatic plants were at filtering and consuming the nutrients in waste water from aquaculture farms. This research tested also terrestrial plants and these proved to be an effective method for water purification.
Science
True scientific aquaponics research began in the 1970's and is continuing with many universities across the world refining technologies to improve output. In particular, Dr. James Rakocy of the University of the Virgin Islands has been working to refine aquaponic systems over the past 50 years.
Design
Aquaponic system design varies with culture and climate. We take into consideration all the variables in the location of each system. We use the same materials that should be available in most developing nation applications.