8.8 CHAPTER SUMMARY

The ten most important aspects of aquaponic unit management are: Observe and monitor the system every day.

Ensure adequate aeration and water circulation with water pumps and air pumps.
• Maintain good water quality: pH 6-7; DO> 5 mg/litre; TAN < 1 mg/litre; NO2 < 1 mg/litre; NO, 5-150 mg/litre; temperature 18-30 °C.
Choose fish and plants according to seasonal climate. Do not overcrowd the fish tanks (< 20 kg/1 000 litres).
• Avoid overfeeding, and remove any uneaten food after 30 minutes. Remove solid wastes, and keep tanks clean and shaded. Balance the number of plants, fish and size of biofilter.
Stagger harvesting and restocking/replanting to maintain balance.
Do not let pathogens enter the system from people or animals, and do not contaminate produce with system water by letting system water wet the leaves.