An Integrated Nutrient-Film Hydroponics and Crayfish Aquaculture System Preliminary Investigation and Comparison to Greenhouse Soil Farming
Date of Award
2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Natural Sciences
First Advisor
McCord, Elzie
Keywords
Aquaponics, Hydroponics, Aquaculture, Nutrient-Film Technique, Crayfish, Geodesic Dome
Area of Concentration
Biology
Abstract
The term aquaponics describes a new field in agriculture involving the integrated culture of aquatic animals and plants through the combination of hydroponics and aquaculture. As recirculating, virtually self-sufficient systems, aquaponics can reduce the negative effects of agricultural run-off and wastewater discharge associated with other food production methods. This thesis explores the field of aquaponics for use in high-yield food production as an alternative to soil agriculture. A unique experimental aquaponics system was designed and tested for viability and comparison to greenhouse soil-container farming. The system integrates Procambarus clarkii (Girard) crayfish aquaculture and nutrient-film technique (NFT) hydroponics to grow strawberries, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Housed in a geodesic dome greenhouse, the system was cost effective and proved to be viable for plant and crayfish production. Preliminary results showed that nutrients obtained only from crayfish waste produced quality strawberry fruit in the aquaponics system. Aquaponic strawberry plant growth and berry production exceeded levels of productivity in soil-grown strawberries. Tomatoes grew at similar rates while cucumber production was minimal in both systems. The high rates of aggression and cannibalism that occurred among crayfish make the feasibility of commercial crayfish culture in tanks uncertain. Overall, the aquaponics system was more successful than the soil system and the results demonstrate proof-of-concept for a unique integrated aquaponics method that demands further research to improve productivity.
Recommended Citation
Clarke, Erin Marie, "An Integrated Nutrient-Film Hydroponics and Crayfish Aquaculture System Preliminary Investigation and Comparison to Greenhouse Soil Farming" (2007). Theses & ETDs. 3759.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3759
Rights
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