New to Aquaponics

[Jeannette V.]

While I have been aware of aquaponics for about a year now, but I live in Maine, no green house or real indoor space to setup, and work some very long hours. However, I want to at least dip my toe in and start on a small scale.  I currently have 4 aquariums running in my house. The largest one is for my aquatic turtle so I dont think  I can use his water (possible salmonella problems). 

 

I was thinking of using the 2- 20 gallon aquariums that I have and going small by just growing lettuce and herbs.  One 20 gallons has feeder guppies in it for the turtle and one has 4 tetras left. Once they go, I was thinking of puting some fancy goldfish in for my set up.  If I use the right size pumps and grow beds would this be a feasible?  I have a small space in my dining romm that I can fit it all in on an old 55 gallon aquarium stand that I have.  I know that the gold fish would  produce plenty of waste, but what about the guppies?  Also, would I need to remove the gravel from the tanks as it collects most of the fish waste solids? 

 

I appreciate any input, thanks.

[Ryan Garlington]

I would definitely not use gravel. Occasionally you need to stir the water to get the solids off the bottom and moving through the pump.