Aquaponics vs. Hydroponics and Aquaculture

Unlike aquaponics, hydroponics is not a closed-loop system and does not utilize fish, so the water must be constantly conditioned and supplemented with fertilizer to feed the growing plants.

Aquaculture involves farming fish and other aquatic life—not produce. Ultimately, the water quality does not match that of aquaponics and since the water must be flushed regularly in order to maintain an adequate level of sanitation, fish waste can be problematic in downstream dead zones.

Both of these methods require more resources and are more wasteful. Aquaponics combines these practices to create a sustainable symbiotic system for growing both produce and fish.