Aquaponics

Is this the future of food production?

Story: Sherica Campbell - INMED Caribbean | Photography: Cedric Henry

The idea of growing your own fish and vegetables is not new. However, it has become more popular in recent years as people have become more interested in their food sources and how their food is produced. In the Caribbean, climate-related events are major threats to the agricultural sector, affecting food security and livelihoods. Small agricultural enterprises are among the most vulnerable, because many lack the technology, knowledge and financing to implement climate-adaptive measures.

Aquaponics is an intensive form of food production that combines hydroponics (soilless crop production) and fish farming in a closed, symbiotic system that is up to 10 times more productive than conventional farming in the same amount of space. Nutrient-rich water from the fish tank is piped through raised growbeds filled with gravel. Plants in the growbeds absorb the nutrients, while the gravel filters the water and returns it clean to the fish tank.

As a Budding Farmer, you don’t have to be left out! It can be done at home without any experience or training if you follow this simple guide.