==== ==== How to Master Aquaponics: A Primer http://tinyurl.com/7vkxvhe ==== ==== Aquaponics is one of the most well-loved and sustainable ways to produce fresh vegetables and fruits and, at the same time, sustain a freshwater fish system. Aquaponics eliminates the common disadvantages of more traditional vegetable gardens while improving upon existing closed freshwater fish systems. With this technique, youll be hitting two birds with one stone: fish will thrive in the closed freshwater system and produce the nutrients needed by plants. The plants, on the other hand, will benefit from the waste products produced by the fish. As the plants feed on the nutritious soup within the system, the plants filter and clean the water, too. This approach is very sustainable and many aquaponic enthusiasts around the country have already experienced great success with creating sustainable aquaponic systems that regularly produce organic vegetables and tasty, clean fish. Demystifying aquaponics Aquaponics is usually defined as a hybrid of two existing methods: aquaculture and hydroponics. Aquaculture is the process of raising fish in closed systems. Hydroponics, on the other hand, endeavors to produce fresh fruits and vegetables using water alone -- with no soil to speak of. When you combine these two older systems, you get aquaponics. Now why would anyone be interested in aquaponics anyway? Here are some of the main advantages: 1.Aquaponics does not require a lot of space. 2.You will end up harvesting both fish and vegetables (or fruits, if you prefer). 3.Its relatively easy to set up your own aquaponic system. 4.It is not expensive at all to create and maintain an aquaponic system. 5.Aquaponic systems are expandable. As you continue to master the process, you can add sections to your existing system to increase your yield/harvest. 6.You can find aquaponics practitioners around the country. Youll be able to reach out to people with identical interests and learn from them when you are just starting out. Flexible production