The dark fish tank is to try and limit algal growth as much as possible. Your system will be creating a heap of nutrients and algal blooms will eat into these, mess with your pH and deplete your oxygen levels. I do not keep my fish in complete darkness, but I have wrapped my fish tank and grow beds in a double layer of shade netting. Algal growth is not rapid, and if you keep tilapia, you can stop feeding them for a few days every now and then and they will eat the sides of your tank clean for you.
I have started a group for South African AP members to share concepts, sources of materials etc. Please have a look and join if you think it will help.
Eco - just check with the manufacturers of the bins that the material used is OK for food production - a lot of the cheaper recycled plastics are great for everything else but as it cannot be verified that there are no potential problems with the source plastic (such as chemicals that it may contain or have been stored in it) you have to make up your own mind on whether you want to use it or not.
In terms of the Hydroton (expanded clay): I do not feel the benefits justify the price of a whole bed full of the stuff. It is easy on the hands and do weigh less than gravel, but at most, I will consider a bed that is topped off with the stuff, but not filled completely.
Kobus Jooste
Apr 25, 2011
Kobus Jooste
I have started a group for South African AP members to share concepts, sources of materials etc. Please have a look and join if you think it will help.
Jul 5, 2011
Kobus Jooste
Eco - just check with the manufacturers of the bins that the material used is OK for food production - a lot of the cheaper recycled plastics are great for everything else but as it cannot be verified that there are no potential problems with the source plastic (such as chemicals that it may contain or have been stored in it) you have to make up your own mind on whether you want to use it or not.
In terms of the Hydroton (expanded clay): I do not feel the benefits justify the price of a whole bed full of the stuff. It is easy on the hands and do weigh less than gravel, but at most, I will consider a bed that is topped off with the stuff, but not filled completely.
Nov 19, 2011