An Integrated Aqua-Vegeculture System (IAVS), also known as Sandponics, is a sustainable food production method that combines aquaculture (raising aquatic animals like fish) and horticulture (growing plants).
reference: https://leedanacg.com/basics-of-sandponics/
Here's how it works:
- Fish Tank: Fish are raised in a tank.
- Nutrient-Rich Water: The water in the fish tank becomes enriched with nutrients from fish waste (ammonia, etc.).
- Sand Beds: This nutrient-rich water is then pumped into sand-filled grow beds where plants are grown.
- Biofiltration: The sand in the grow beds acts as a natural filter, converting the ammonia into nitrates, a form of nitrogen that plants can use.
- Water Recirculation: The water, now cleaned by the plants, is recirculated back to the fish tank, creating a closed-loop system.
Key Benefits:
- Sustainable:
- Water conservation: Water is reused efficiently.
- Reduced waste: Fish waste is utilized as fertilizer.
- Eco-friendly: No chemical fertilizers or pesticides are typically needed.
- High Yield: Plants can grow quickly due to the constant supply of nutrients.
- Versatility: A wide variety of plants can be grown.
- Space-Efficient: Can be scaled to fit various sizes of spaces.
In essence, IAVS is a symbiotic relationship where fish provide nutrients for plant growth, and plants help purify the water for the fish.