Stocking density aquarium aquaponics

[Andrew Paine]

Bonjour

I am english but live in France. Aquaponics is very new and unknown here. I need some advice on my aquarium aquaponics set up. As its winter I thought I would start with a small indoor system to get the hang of aquaponics. I have an aquarium that holds 100 liters (26.50 gallons) and a grow bed of about .0.4 metre sqare (4ft²). Its cycled and I have put 20 small carp in. Their total weight was 300g (less than 1 lb).

From what I read I should have at least 4 times as many fish. But that seems to much and the tank would look really overcrowded.

So for a small system can I get away with less fish per liter ?

Advice appreciated

[George]

Yes.  You should see plant growth, especially as the fish grow.

[Andrew Paine]

Thankyou George
George said:

Yes.  You should see plant growth, especially as the fish grow.

[Jeff S]

You'll be fine with the fish you have until they start growing. Just feed them as much as they'll eat and you'll get plenty of poop. Initially if you concentrate on plant growth life will be more simple. You can grow a lot of plants with very few fish. I got myself into trouble trying to grow fish and plants and wound up chasing my tail trying to control water readings. I have to many fish and had to cut back on feed and add grow beds to keep ammonia readings down. Starting small is a good idea. Gives you a chance to better plan your larger system.

[Andrew Paine]

Jeff S said:

You'll be fine with the fish you have until they start growing. Just feed them as much as they'll eat and you'll get plenty of poop. Initially if you concentrate on plant growth life will be more simple. You can grow a lot of plants with very few fish. I got myself into trouble trying to grow fish and plants and wound up chasing my tail trying to control water readings. I have to many fish and had to cut back on feed and add grow beds to keep ammonia readings down. Starting small is a good idea. Gives you a chance to better plan your larger system.

Thanks Jeff much appreciated. A reassuring answer.