Aquaponics: a new trend in food production
2012
Olarenwaju, A.N. | Agbelege, O.O. | Akinwole, O.A.
The increase in population coupled with current and escalating extent of soil degradation, water scarcity and climate-related challenges plaguing agricultural productivity in every corner of the world and particularly in Nigeria demands for alternative food techniques, one of them called aquaponics. This paper highlights a new trend in food production techniques for the production of fish and vegetable crops in aquaponics. Aquaponics is experiencing renewed interest worldwide with many small home growers and large operations employing the process as a means of producing sustainable fish and plant crops. The design of this scalable farming system closely mirrors that of recirculating systems in general, with the addition of a hydroponic component and the possible elimination of a separate biofilter and devices for removing fine and dissolved solids. The benefits of aquaponics includes conservation of water resources and plant nutrients, intensive production of fish and reduced operating costs relative to either system in isolation. Aquaponics, without doubt is a practice that is receiving considerable interest due to an ever increasing need for fresh wholesome food and sustainable eco-friendly agricultural practices.
显示更多 [+] 显示较少 [-]Includes: 3 figures.;Also includes: 12 references.
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