Trickle filter for aquaponics / aquaculture.. A moving bed bio filter mod..

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks for watching folks & don't forget to click the subscribe button if you enjoyed the video. 🐟🐟 Share the clip around with family & friends if you think they'll enjoy it too. 👍 Cheers all & have a top one. 😊

[@tim49013]

Rob Bob's Backyard Farm & Aquaponics hello bob iv been in to aquaponics for some time now even opened a hydroponic shop in the uk 🇬🇧 now the time has come for me to start building a shop safe system just for show and for myself who has being toying with this idea years before I even had the shop iv only ever built small diy aquaponic systems small toys if you like but this time I want to pull out all the stops and build something that looks and runs amazing. And was wondering if you could help me with advice along the way I have 90% of the stuff needed to do this now as iv been collecting pumps pipes n reses n so on do you think you could help when needed advice ? From tony

[@SevenbeeChannel]

Hi sir, we have look your video and subscribe... nice information.. please subcribe our channel..

[@OthmanBuraik]

Rob Bob's Backyard Farm & Aquaponics Hello Rob... I always send comments and I am a huge fan God bless you. But you never answer my inquiries... :( I figure that it because these videos are at least 4-5 yrs old so i must apologize but I'm latr on the Aquaponics express train... :) Just a quick question can you please explain how you have the venturi set up on your biofilter... if you have an existing video well and good... if not... well your welcome... I just gave you your next material for a video... cheers mate... hehehe Have a good one.

[@Erbione]

Anyone please reply what is inside bio filter

[@yrnehubaldo351]

@@tim49013

[@What-is-thehandle]

You have the best eyebrows in the business! Thanks for making these videos. I have been binge watching them for the last 4 days. I cant wait to start down the road of aquaponics. Cheers

[@RobsAquaponics]

The eyebrows & myself thank you Chris. 😁😂 Have you sussed out the starters playlist at all? kzbin.info/aero/PLBcWprMIwYYj8zCdbSzPJOR3HRXpxuBwf I also have some folks that are helping me to edit the content into a guide of sorts as well. I hope to have an announcement on that very soon. Cheers & have a top one.

[@OgMandin0]

I like your attitude. No problems, just opportunities! I would have panicked and built a sand/gravel filter. You decided not to re-invent the wheel and use what you already have. GREAT CALL, my man!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey there :) Got the idea fro Paul Van from Earthan Group.. That man is a walking fountain of knowledge when it comes to Aquaculture/Aquaponics methinks.. Am thinking that I will need to run the filter every few weeks as the algae has started to creep back in.. Shall keep cleaning it out with the trickle for the time being but would like a more permanent solution.. Cheers & all the best, Rob.

[@charlesbryan7184]

Thanks for the great video and including English sized pipes as well. Keep them coming !

[@steventyler18]

Your videos are so good at explaining concepts and practices! Thanks for all of the info!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Gl;ad you're finding them helpful Tyler. Cheers & happy growing.

[@hellesmunich6982]

I have been Aquaponic Gardening for 2 years using flood and drain,Hydroton grow beds. My system only has a solids filter. The rest of the filtering is done in the grow beds. I have been searching for a way to do a better job of Mineralization and Nitrification. The issue I have is that the Nitate level is off the charts and never goes down. I have limited space. The ability to turn a bio- filter into a trickle filter is great idea! I am hoping it will help with out gassing the over abundant Nitrates. Thanks for posting!

[@onebigkahuna69]

Just bit the bullet and bought my first two IBC's and the guy asked me what I was going to do with them and told him Aquaponics.He said a bunch of people that buy from him do that and he showed me his Aquaponic system. That was the first system i have seen outside of watching videos.I got to see his Greenhouse and his raised bed garden also.He is a big fan of yours and Murray Hallams.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Nice one OBK. 👍👍 It helps when you can find someone locally to bounce ideas off of. Have you made a start on the system yet? Cheers & all the best for 2019 mate.

[@onebigkahuna69]

@@RobsAquaponics No,I haven't started cutting them yet. lol I'll be honest I'm a little nervous to cut them.lol I built one raised bed and have the other layed out and drilled. I have to cut them and get them the way i want.These things look like they are brand new and had sugar water in them before he got them.The sticker on front said they last filled on 12/8/18.I think its was built by a German company Mauser? They were cheap too 60.00 USD. I'm going work on them this week or weekend.

[@DeltaSpider_]

This complicated set-up is really cool, though obviously not for beginners. The single-barrel chop and flip that he did is much less complex and imposing. Still though, you're an inspiration to us all, Rob Bob.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks DeltaSpider. Cool name BTW. 👍 Cheers & happy growing. 🌱🌱

[@thunglamohumtsoe5710]

Your setup is rocket science to me. Need to rewatch again. Great video.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hope you could wrap your head around it LH. 👍

[@thunglamohumtsoe5710]

Took degree in Agriculture and Masters on Soil Science. But I ended up with Aquaponic. Thank you so much for all your videos and lessons.

[@Lukywest]

That made a huge a difference with the water. The muck was defiantely sucked out. Thanks for sharing your #aquaponics with us.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Morning Sir :) It does do a good job but hopefully we won't be needing it again soon... Algae looks to of dissipated now there is some extra shade set up for the system.. Cheers mate :)

[@goforgreenliving]

I am not that far along on my fish farm but it is nice to know when I am I will have no idea what I'm doing lol. I need to your build again as a refresher. Seriously a lot of great tips Thanks Rob

[@RobsAquaponics]

Cheers Daniel.. Still ironing out the winkles as it were.. Had the bacteria die off the other day but haven't lost any fish as of yet.. Am babying the system along for a while until we can re establish a colony.. Hope to post an update this weekend coming.. Cheers mate & hope you have a great one..

[@danielsiew5051]

Hi Rob do you mind showing us the venturi specifically for k1 media as you shown in this video? Thanks

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Daniel. The venturi used in this build can be seen in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zouwm3edgph_l7c That link will take you to the exact spot. 😉👍

[@malakingdude]

Biofilters are the greatest. look at the aquarium guy on KZbin. very knowledgable.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Have sussed out a few of his clips. 👍👍 Cheers Edward

[@honeybacres]

The system is looking great Rob.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi John & Thanks :) Still a few teething problems but should get them sorted soon enough.. Have a great weekend mate, Cheers :)

[@pinemarketcap2364]

Thank you for sharing your experience , what is those media in bio filter?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Ali. I use the PE03 from Small Boss. I think it's called K2 if made by Kaldness. Hope that helps some.

[@pinemarketcap2364]

@@RobsAquaponics thank you Rob

[@BigbunnySSS]

I am finally understanding how you got so far into this aquaponics game. Its has me hooked now. I sit and ponder on my system most nights and scheme ways to grow better vegetables. As I sit and gather parts, graft tomato plants and get uv protective film for the greenhouse- and tanks, more pipe, pumps oh my!

[@RobsAquaponics]

:D Have been thinking too long & hard about the fish farm as well the new aquaponic system I think.. The normal garden has taken a bit of a back seat at the moment :/ Hope to get that sorted this weekend.. Well, After I start the move around off the aquaponics & finish harvesting the worms ;) Cheers & have a great weekend..

[@TravelFoodFarming]

How do we calculate the volume of MBBR for a system. For instance, a 1000 liter aquaponics system.

[@RobsAquaponics]

It really depends on the amount of food going into the system & the % protein it has. Grow bed wise, it's 25L of wet media per fish you want to grow out to 500g/1lb. For the bio media, that depends on the biological surface area of the biomedia you're going to use. Cheers.

[@TravelFoodFarming]

Thanks Rob. Have a good evening!

[@rocarr180]

Thankyou Rob, your aewsome, newbee starting out appreciating all the advice and life experiences you share in your videos fantastic work man ty again

[@RobsAquaponics]

Rowan Carr No problem mate & I hope the clips give you a few useful ideas you can use yourself. Cheers

[@dksfollies4772]

Very nice demonstration brother

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks mate.

[@AustinFamilyGardeningChannel]

Great job on your filter system Rob !

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks Larry... Think I will be using it more often than first thought.. Getting a bit of a green tinge to the water again already :/ Might have to come up with a more permanent solution methinks.. Cheers & have a great one..

[@margan59]

I have essentially the same system to filter a 150 gal aquarium. If you flip the drip plate over and line with cheap poly quilt batting the batting will catch the particulates and can be easily switched out.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks Margaret.. Am using some aquarium filter mat to do a similar job now & find it's working really well.. I add it in there for 24 hours after cleaning the radial flow filter & it does a great job at removing any dislodged fine particles.. Cheers & have a great one..

[@OneYardRevolution]

Very cool stuff! You are a well of knowledge, Rob Bob !

[@RobsAquaponics]

Morning Patrick.. Am slowly getting there mate :) Hope to make a start on the new aquaponic set up today.. Once I catch up on YT that is :/ All the best mate.. Rob.

[@albertwilson3396]

What's the clear hose cable tied to the inlet?

[@RobsAquaponics]

That's the hose that supplies air to the venturi in the base of the reactor/filter Albert. Cheers mate.

[@eltallerdeelberg....1273]

Kinda weird seeing you without the huge beard. Nice build,simple and efective!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Cheers mate. 👍😁

[@eltallerdeelberg....1273]

Cheers!✌

[@miks976]

What a great set up Rob, that worked well.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Michael.. Thanks mate.. Has been fun to play with ;) Hope do make a decent start at moving the aquaponics around this weekend... Wanna give us a hand ;) Did the venturis turn up yet? Cheers mate & have a great one..

[@miks976]

Yes, got the venturis just have to pick them up, thanks again rob...

[@augustoluna5577]

Hi Rob. Glad I found your channel. One question is there any downside of using an UV light filter on the way?

[@RobsAquaponics]

UV filters can affect the plant availability for a few elements in the water. Iron apparently is the most affected with boron & manganese also becoming less available to the plants as I understand it Augusto. As this system was a fish only aquaculture system I really wasn't concerned about adding one in. Hope that helps some & sorry it took so long to get back to you.

[@RobsAquaponics]

***** Hey Mate.. This is a stand alone recirculating aquaculture system.. Thought I'd have a crack at it just to see how it goes & it's been an interesting system to run to say the least.. Have found it a bit more fiddly than aquaponics to manage pH & solids wise.. As soon as the some of the fish are harvested & the rest moved Ill be removing it & adding in some more grow beds for the aquaponics.. Cheers mate & have a great one..

[@TheRedRider100]

RobBobs Backyard Farming Hey rob, how much litres of k1 kaldness media would you suggest me to use for 40 tilapia in a 200 gal fishtank going into a floating raft growbed?

[@RobsAquaponics]

TheRedRider100 Hi There. I used a calculator supplied by Earthan Group for mine but I can't find it on Paul's new site sorry. I do know that it has an surface area of around 800m²m³ but am un sure of its surface area in feet² feet³ sorry. If you can find that out this article from Bright Agrotech might be able to help you calculate the amount you need, www.brightagrotech.com/biological-surface-area-in-aquaponics/ Hope that helps & have fun with the build.

[@TheRedRider100]

Cheers!

[@andreijean2647]

Nice vid. You really know how to handle things, it all looked complicated for me. Have a good day.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Morning :) I was the same when I first started looking into aquaponics so decided to jump in feet first.. Has been very educational that's for sure.. All the best, Rob..

[@CherokeeAquatics]

You are Awsome mate! I learn so much from you. Keep it up!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Cheers Christopher 👍

[@Artemis-11235]

Nice; lots of good info. How do you like the uni-seals? Ever any leaks? Any tips on working with them?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Sorry I missed this mate. Am very happy with them so far. 👍 The best tip I could give is make sure you drill a very accurate hole & clean all the swarf off before fitting the uniseal. Badly drilled holes appears to be the biggest issue folks have with using them. Cheers.

[@chaslie]

Hi Rob. At the 11:10 mark of the video, you said you are turning your venturi back on. It also looks like you have a black compressor near the tap you turned on. Plus you have the air stone in the tank. So is the air compressor producing air for the air stone or is there a compressor that is feeding air into a plumbed venturi device? Love your videos - well done.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there. The black pump near the valve is the water pump that runs the system 👍 At that point the air stone has been removed from the filter & there is only the venturi delivering air & added water current to the filter. The hose you can see inside the drum is the breather hose for the venturi which allows air to be delivered to the unit under water. Hope that helps some & thanks 👍😊 Rob.

[@chaslie]

Thanks Rob. So this means you have 2 water pumps? One in the sump that pumps to the fish tank using a venturi and a secondary pump that pumps into the bio filter using a venturi? If possible, are you able to tell me the sizes of these 2 pumps please? Many thanks. Chas.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Chas. Only the one pump to run the Fish Farm. This clip shows how the fish farm was roughly laid out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4GtlaFvh5aYqq8 I ended up using a 10,000 lph pump on this system as the flow was split between the 2 tanks & then with the third flow into the bio filter. I would probably think about adding a second solids filter between the bio filter & sump tank if I was to build another one of these just to let you know ;-) Cheers mate.

[@danperkins1879]

do you have a step by step guide on how to build the moving bed biofilter? only just came across your videos, they're great.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Dan. Hope to have one released as part of a "how to build" series I'm working on. Am doing basic systems & solids filters first. Cheers & happy growing. 🌱

[@jeanaimarre8068]

Thanks a lot for sharing. Do you have any plans about your installation???

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Jean Aimarre Hi Jean. I haven't posted plans as I don't think the system is good enough as it stood. If I ever get time I'll post a basic diagram on our blog. Just too flat out helping others with question in my spare time. Cheers & all the best.

[@jeanaimarre8068]

+Rob Bob's Backyard Farming Hi No souci for the plans, you already make it a lot so take you re time thanks again

[@C3Voyage]

Amazing setup Rob. Love the vids.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Cheers mate.. Has been fun to play around with.. You have a aquaponic system on the go? Have a great one..

[@C3Voyage]

Rob Bob Not yet, but it is on my radar. I'd like to incorporate some sort of system with my pond. If you're bored, I've been putting a lot of vids about what I'm dolng since the first of the year. Used to blog for 4 years and it seems like I'm transitioning to KZbin now for some odd reason. Anyway, enjoy your channel buddy. Cheers back.

[@RobsAquaponics]

C3 Voyage Be warned, it can get addictive..I started out with a barrel system ;) Shall check out your clips after works done. Cheers mate..

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

What kind of air pump are you using? Brand name? I believe that you said 924gph pump. Where did you get your bio media? Chuck

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Chuck. Very sorry I missed this mate. The pump in this clip burnt out very quickly so wouldn't recommend it ;-) The bio media is from Smallboss & is there PE03 variety. It had the best surface area to volume ratio we cold find locally. Sorry again for missing this earlier mate. How's the plans for keeping the system warm going ? I saw the last clip you posted with the space heaters in the mini fish room. Looks to be working OK as long as you can prevent too much heat loss from the rafts. 👍 Cheers mate.

[@markallen200]

Rob, Now that you have run the fish only system for a couple of months, which system is easier to care for the Aquaponics or the Aquaculture?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Morning Mark :) The fish farm has only really been up for just under a month so hasn't been running long enough to tell really.. Am still having a few teething issues like the falling pH & a persistent suspended algae problem but other than that it's smooth sailing ;) Am looking at sorting out a shell grit filter of some sort this weekend to look after the pH issues.. The algae can wait for a while as I can run the trickle every few weeks to look after that problem.. Still doing regular checkhs o the water chemistry as well to monitor how the cycling of the system is going.. The aquaponics on the other hand only requires some fish food, pH buffer & maintaining the plants.. Is fairly straight forward really.. Cheers mate & have a great weekend..

[@gregorsidler3962]

Thank you very much for your time! Great work!

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Gregor Sidler Thanks Gregor. Hope to have another clip posted in a few days time on this system. Here's a sneak peek at the last of the fish I pulled out yesterday. facebook.com/Bitsouttheback/photos/a.417629381619813.91747.417625838286834/901482913234455/?type=3&theater Cheers mate & all the best.

[@samueloladipo6259]

can you mark a video on bio filter construction and plumbing or pipe fittings of the tank thank.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Samuel. Hope to have one released as part of a "how to build" series I'm working on. Am doing basic systems & solids filters first. Cheers & happy growing. 🌱

[@pearlineseah8726]

Hi, what foods do you feed your fishes?😀

[@RobsAquaponics]

I use Ridleys commercial native feeds Pearline. www.primo.net.au/shop/Ridley-AquaFeed/native-rangeCheers.

[@lucasaj555]

Gday Rob. Im building a moving bed filter and im not sure how much media to fill it with. just wondering if i could get your opinion. we're using a 44 gallon drum and filling it with either k1. k3. bio balls or if theres a more suitable media I'll use that.

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Luca Saj Hi there. It all depends on the amount of biomass you will have in the system & the biological surface area of the product you'll be using. For our system I used 95L (25gal US) of PE03 media from smallboss (link below) which worked out to be enough to handle the load created by 100 x 500g (1lb) fish. biomedia1.bjsxp02.host.35.com/product/showproduct.php?id=31&lang=en I bought it from an aquarium supply store here in Australia but aquaculture & water treatment places would sell it too I think. I used an online calculator to work out exactly how much is needed but it's no longer freely available sorry. You need to join the Earthan Edge website to be able to view it now (which I think is very much worth the joining fee). articles.earthanedge.com/ Hope that helps a bit. Cheers.

[@bradleyferguson911]

you cut your self sort there at the end friend. hahaha. great info. fish look happy.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Have to stop at some point Bradley or I would natter on all day :D ;) Hope some of it comes in handy mate, Cheers & have a great one, Rob..

[@fadhlimuhamad2054]

Hi Rob, how much biomedia did you put inside the trickle tank? greetings from Malaysia

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there Fadhli.. I have a 80 litres PE03 bio media in there that gives me roughly 65-70m² of biological surface area.. There is a hand calculator on the Earthan group website that helps with working out the amount needed for aquaculture set ups if that's any help.. www.earthangroup.com.au/aquaculture-biofilter-sizing-free-calculator/ Cheers & have a great one, Rob..

[@AGROH20GROW]

What is that insulating reflective material you use?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there.. Its a foil roof & wall insulation paper than comes in rolls.. We have get it from building supply & hardware stores here.. You can get it as a flat material like ours & others will have other insulation material like fiberglass wool or foam on one side.. Hope that helps..

[@AGROH20GROW]

Rob Bob Thank you good sir!

[@RobsAquaponics]

E-NOK E-NOK No problem, only to happy to help..

[@c.t.2152]

I have been thinking of a system that uses the aquarium up tubes directly in the potted plant. So the aquarium air stone inside of a tube would pull water from the pond and deliver it directly into the potted plant. But I don't get why any system wouldn't be set up to run off one small pump and gravity. I have never even built a system and my first thought was where can I put the high tank. Pond+high tank+swirl filter+bio filter+grow bed or bucket and back to lowest point pond. I keep seeing systems on here that require more than one pump in most cases they are running three. I don't get it. Two of those stock tanks is only 250 gallons. Wouldn't a 250 GPH be enough? Ad in air stones and power heads and a sponge filter all in the pond and it should be great. Right?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Chris. All my systems run off a single pump 👍 In some aquaponic systems I let the water flow from the highest point back to the lowest via gravity & in others I split the flow from the pump to the grow beds & fish tank. Due to restrictions in the pipes, hoses & venturi you lose a lot of the flow rate + what they say on the box is never correct from what I've found which doesn't help. If you are running a low stocking density that sort of filtration is fine but when you have over 100 fish in the system that can pose a few problems. sorry for missing your comment at the time. Cheers & have a great one, Rob.

[@ppac300]

this is a very nice set up

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks Philip.. Cheers mate..

[@10yearvet]

Thanks, Rob. I really appreciate your videos on maintaining your units. Wish I could get my hands on a bunch of those blue barrels. They are evidently a premium item here and when I happen to find some no one wants to turn loose of them. The only ones I can get are ones that have had harsh chemicals in them and I am just not sure they are safe to use.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Jay :) There are some places here that find it hard to get them as well.. I've known folks to arrange a bulk buy to freight barrels & IBC to an area to make it worthwhile.. Am glad you find the clips interesting mate :) Cheers & have a great one.. Rob..

[@AwB]

Is this trickle filter a combination of a solid remover and a biofilter that converts fish waste to nitrates?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Aaron. This ones does both. Trickle filters are normally used just as bio reactors but this method was suggested to me as a great way to remove fine solids in this instance. 👍 Worked a treat too so would use it again if need be. Cheers

[@ninolarga542]

Hi Rob. Good day. Been watching your videos and learned a lot. Question though. How did you setup the venturi in your moving media? Thanks.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Sorry I missed this Nino. Do you still need an explanation or did you find it elsewhere? Rob.

[@raymondanthony3651]

Yes I've salted the system.. No fish right now.. nitrite too high.. I'm in sunny southern california..

[@RobsAquaponics]

Sweet.. Will be faster than 3 months for you to cycle I think as you're in a warm climate.. Sounds like it's all running on track for you :-) Fish can go in now if you have sated the system with pure salt to the right levels as long as the ammonia isn't too high & the pH is below 7 from what I've read & seen.. Here's an ammonia/nitrogen toxicity chart that might help y out some in that respect.. www.ecofilms.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Total-Ammonia-Nitrogen-Table-Small.jpg

[@raymondanthony3651]

Thank you very much for your intel. I should hook up the rest of the system then? I have 2 more I'm setting up.. or should I wait?

[@raymondanthony3651]

Oh how much ppt of salt?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Glamis itsasandthin 1ppt (part per thousand) is recommended by most backyarders.. I have gone half that with our fish farm.. Here is a professionals take on salting systems.. This chap knows his stuff.. www.earthangroup.com.au/how-much-salt-for-nitrite-free-calculator/ Pure sea salt is the best to use & can be bought cheaply from pool supply stores... Just make sure it's pure.. How many grow beds do you have up now? I added extra beds as the nitrate levels increased as the fish grew..

[@raymondanthony3651]

Thank you I appreciate for your information. I will introduce my tilapia on my next day off. By the way I check my temperature it is approximately 73° to 75°f would be moderacy of the temperature hinder the bacterial growth?

[@jonho7483]

Hey Rob, your videos are awesome thanks for the great content! Quick question about your MBBR, I'm having a little trouble getting the media to circulate evenly. My airstone either pushes all the media towards the outside of the drum or doesn't get the media mixed at all. I guess my question is, what is the ratio of media to water in your MBBR? Cheers

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Jon. I had about 95L or about ½ the total volume of the drum as media. It's not a good idea to go over that amount as it can impede it's movement. I had a small one with the same issue & ended up placing a few stones in the base which helped to spread the air out a bit if that helps any. Cheers.

[@jonho7483]

@@RobsAquaponics thanks for the response! I've found that the media takes some time to lose some of its buoyancy, and now, after a few days, proper fluidization has occurred. Cheers

[@DavidBcc]

When you remove the standpipe from the sump, and the water level drops in both the sump and biofilter (now trickle filter), where exactly does the extra water go? We're talking probably 200-300 litres. I remember you having another IBC sump which is lower in the ground. Is this the key? Trying to wrap my head around this. Thanks!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi David. The water level between the 2 barrels will level out as the water flows in from the bio into the sump. The standpipe in the sump tank was used to regulate the water height in the sump tank otherwise they would be level all the time. The IBC sump tank is a part of the aquaponics system which is totally separate to this stand alone aquaculture system. This system has been pulled down but the aquaponics is still running & have a clip to post on that this weekend 👍 Cheers mate & all the best.

[@charlesyokum7752]

your awesome my man you are very inspiring, i have question regarding where the inlet and outlet of your venturi are exactly located, other than that you covered it like a boss

[@RobsAquaponics]

I have them set up in the fish tank itself on the end of the water inlet. In the moving bed bioreactor, I had in installed in the base under the biomedia. Hope that helps.

[@lifeisbeautiful4382]

this one is a bit confusing, may be becoz my mind got entangled in the plumbing and all the pipes and drums :). what are those white stuff which bubbles for the solids removing? I think , this work is for advance level. Interesting though. Loads of hard work shown in 12:40 mins

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there. A lot of the fish farm clips were shot & uploaded for folks that were following along from KZbin & other blog/social media sites. It is a bit more advanced than the normal backyard aquaponic system but was a great learning experience for myself. Cheers.

[@mattstone8003]

I noticed you are using standard ball valves and true union ball valves for your plumbing, are the true union valves really necessary in your system? (b/c they are pretty pricey, right?)

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Matt Stone Hey Matt. Only using ball valves here as that's all we have available to us. I have threaded adaptor fittings on some of the valves as they don't come made for slip fittings. Cheers mate.

[@DadePomsouvan]

Try using media pads on the top of the filter, it will catch all the debris including algae and it will keep your water crystal clear without using UV light. I have a trickle down filter with several media pads on top and it keeps my water crystal clear. You may have to clean and rinse out the media pads every few months depending out the size and quantity of your fish, good luck!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Dade. I ended up doing that when I ran the filter as a trickle towards the end of it's like. Worked a treat too. Cheers.

[@DadePomsouvan]

Great, I'm glad you tried it!

[@peixedequintalTom]

Olá, o que são esses plásticos pequenos dentro do balde, e pra que serve ?

[@Moncamonca]

Os plásticos servem de superfície para que as bactérias nitrificadoras se fixem. Não importa muito o que sejam, desde que limpos e neutros. Na próxima tenta perguntar em inglês que ajuda XD

[@peixedequintalTom]

+Felício Visnardi Ok , thanks for the explanation, then I can do with any hoses ? Doubt - hoses are not porous it does not influence the colonization of bacteria ?

[@Moncamonca]

Peixe de quintal I guess so, I mean, It may serve you but the surface area will be smaller per volume. Maybe someone with more experience could help you further

[@JasonRenoux]

Hey Rob, hope all is well at the farm. I am a hobbyist and would like to start my journey into aquaponics. I have a limited amount of space (4m2 surface) so my question to you is, is the sump tank really necessary on a small scale system? Somehow I understand fishes may not like the change in volume in their tank but if I have my calculations right (which I hope I do) my grow bed does require only the third of the fish tank to fill until siphon starts. A bit like an ebb and flow system, rather than a CHOP or PIST (that one :) ). Space being crucial for most growers I was wondering how a small scale unit can do without the sump tank. What are your takes on small systems? I would like to see a video of a professional like you setting up a small unit for amateurs like me. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge with us. cheers

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Jason. Have recently posted 2 clips on basic chop & flip system using a 50gal/200L barrel & a larger 250gal/1000L IBC. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGPXmKWLq7ihmK8 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJC5g4KDnaaiidU Another way around it is to add some deep water culture/floating raft beds onto the IBC system. As they are constantly full they don't require water to be removed from the fish tank. You would need to make sure you had enough bio filtration to convert the waste from the fish though but a simple mechanical & bio filter set up would do the trick there. Hope that helps a bit mate

[@JasonRenoux]

Thanks for taking the time to reply Rob. Will have a look at the video (if I haven't watched yet ;) ) Otherwise, I have been thinking of a raft system rather than grow bed. Will investigate a bit more. Another question, I have access to IBC tank but it contains sodium bromide (used in water filtration with ozone). Any idea if once washed and rinsed properly, the plastic would still hold up some of this chemical? Thanks again

[@RobsAquaponics]

Not 100% sure on that one sorry mate. Just noticed how old this comment was & hope you got your answer.

[@ahmonwatkins6864]

Hello I am from the US and I have been watching your videos and you inspired me to build my aquaponics system the same way you are making yours and was wondering if you could go into some more detail about your plumbing set up.

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Ahmon Watkins Hi Ahmon. Am hoping to have some clips posted on my parents build soon that will run through how I set up a basic system. I do have a clip showing how the water flows through the current system if that helps any for the time being. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGXQipaLq79smdk Hope that helps a bit. Cheers.

[@ahmonwatkins6864]

thank you i have actually just finished building my tank, and i am planning of making i video about it in a week or two when its up and running. thank you for your inspiration.

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Ahmon Watkins Am pleased that they've helped in some way Ahmon 👍 Cheers.

[@sweefu2]

Bit late to the party here, just wondering why you wouldn't just add some type of mechanical prefilter? Add a filter sock or course sponge to grab all the suspended particles? Seems like it would have been a much easier option. Cheers

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there. I dd have a filter sock in there but it couldn't handle the load & kept over flowing. This was an easy fix that added no extra cost & only took a few minutes to sort out. Cheers & have a top one.

[@sweefu2]

Rob Bob's Backyard Farm & Aquaponics champion, thank you Rob. Really appreciate the reply mate, I'm learning a heap from your channel. Cheers from sunny Melbourne.

[@tipsclallalcs8223]

what is your Plant to fish ratio how many tanks and beds you Have? what is your temperature summer/winter. I am trying to lay out my system. I am trying to have everything in an operational range with my system

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Tip Sclallalcs I don't run my system on a plant to fish ratio. I look at the level of available nitrate & adjust planting to the levels. This is the most recent clip on our system/jungle & will give you some idea as to why I don't work to the ratios. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHTaoWyvgcaZiq8 Average Summer high is around 31°C/87.8°F during the day & around 19°C/66.2°F at night. Winter high is around 22°C/71.6°F & we get a few mornings every winter 0°C/32°F or below, but that only for a few hours at a time. Average winter low is 6°C/42.8°F. Rainfall wise we get an average of 350.2mm/13.78" in Summer, 214.12mm/8.42" in Autumn, 128.2mm/5.04" in Winter & 185.2mm/7.29" in Spring. Hope that helps.

[@RachelDotey]

Have you tried charcoal for water cloudy-ness?

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Rachel Carbone Hi Rachel. I've never needed to as the water tends to clear itself over time using a trickle filter like this 👍 In the aquaponics the grow beds tend to help settle it out. Cheers.

[@afrohman1]

I look forward to your videos always fun and entertaining. Have you ever thought of having any fresh water prawns?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there & thanks afrohman1.. I have thought about it but would like to keep them but need to get a handle on stabilising the pH first.. Their shells, like crayfish, don't like a pH of below 7.. Would be better to have them in with the fish farm rather than the aquaponics (as I have already found out with Yabbies).. Crays are something I will be seriously thinking about in the future once this system is sorted & the new aquaponics is up & running.. Cheers, Rob.

[@andyandelica.andmebffs7114]

wish I had the room for an IBC tote,..,. ive got 4-55 gallon barrals I use, for the first few weeks they turned a nice green,.made a biofilter using a 5 gallon bucket fills at bottom trickle's back out into the barrals--cleared the water up in three days yay.,.now im going to set it for a grow bed using hydroton any idea if I should use the biofilter before or after the grow bed.,.,. my thought is before then direct into the grow bed and back to the tanks

[@RobsAquaponics]

+john collins Hi John. I'd only add a biofilter on if you were going to stock it heavily with fish. General rule most use is 1 x fish (that you want to grow to 1lb at harvest size) per 6gal (US) of clay media. If you're stocking less than that I wouldn't worry about the filter. If you are adding one on I don't think it would matter if it was before or after the grow beds. Just depends on what would work best with your ;layout I think. Hope that helps some mate. Cheers.

[@mattdawson7055]

Hey rob love ya work mate. 1000L fish tank x4 400L dwc beds split flow x150 sleepy cod fingerlings. Is a 20L moving bio filter like the original one you built be sufficient? Or will i need bigger because im lacking media in the beds ? I want to have fairly high stocking rates. Cheers mate

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Matt & sorry I missed this. Whereabouts are you located if you don't mind me asking? I don't have a chart or calculator yet to help sizing bio filters. I do think that you do need a lot more. For me here in SE QLD I needed 95 L of the PE03/K1 style media to handle the waste from around 90-100 fish getting fed a 36% protein feed. There are variables like temperature, tank volume involved as well. If you're on Facebook I'd suggest you ask to join Aquaponics Anonymous group & check out the files Mathias has collected. Am sure there's a few on calculating bio filters there. facebook.com/groups/245708769126433/ Hope that helps some mate.

[@mattdawson7055]

All good mate been following you for a long time i know how busy you are and the large amount of incoming emails you recieve. I live in Biloela QLD approx 7 hours north of you. Im 28 yrs old got 2 young daughters (another one on the way) 2 dogs 8 chooks ;) Our climates wouldnt differ much maybe slightly dryer here temps would be the same. I ended going away from 20L bucket i realised i was rushing it without having the proper gear. I learnt on my first NFT hydro that rushing=problems and pain. Iv got x6 ibc totes x1 220L drum need 1 more for my solids/bio filter, 15000LH pump 80LH airpump. Then i need to save for bio media and uni seals from you as well as many little things. Iv gone back to designing the system while i gather the gear, i want to get the fundmentals right instead of diving into it. Would it be possible to send you a email with what im planning to do and get some guidance? My email is [e-mail] I appreciate your work load and im not in a rush Cheers mate

[@Ken-cy7xy]

Looks good👍 Have you ever researched IAVS? It's aqua ponics but uses sand as the grow medium and supposedly eliminates any need for additional filters. I am working on building one myself to see how well it works. Thanks for the video.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Ken. Have seen a fair bit of information that Garry D has been releasing to help Mark out. 👍 Might not be something I have a crack at at this property but it does look like a feasible way to integrate fish & plant production. If I ever end up getting enough land I may set up a small system to see how it goes. Cheers mate.

[@McDowallManor]

Very impressive mate.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there Mr Andy :) Certainly does a good job.. Have a feeling that I will be running the trickle a lot more frequently thn frst though... Starting to get another slight green tinge to the water :/ Cheers mate & have a great long weekend.. Mr RB :)

[@fahadislam5168]

sir, how much hour you run your water pump? or how percent water you recirculate daily?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there. This system was running 24 hours a day 7 days a week & from memory think the tanks water volumes were turning over around 2½ times an hour. Hope that helps some. Rob.

[@fahadislam5168]

Thank you sir

[@SusanRogersMakingItWork4Me]

Looks like that worked out really well!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Morning Susan :) Have found it works really well but am unfortunately still having a few small issues with algae... Might have to look into another form of filtration yet, we shall see.. Thanks & hope you have a great weekend, Rob :)

[@petascanlan3657]

Hi Bob....I'm new and having problems with amonia spikes....lost fish..ph is at 8.4, amonia ..I've got gold fish to test out my system...just got my bio media in..oh, also how much media to you put in a 30 gallon bio? what would you recommend I do?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Peta. Sorry I missed this post. How is the system going now? Has the ammonia settled down? With the bio filters I think the most volume per vessel I'd add is 50-60% so you can still get good movement in there. How much you need to handle the ammonia load from the fish is another matter & depends on biological surface are of the media, feed rate & % protein of the feed. Hope that helps a bit & the systems running a bit better Rob.

[@AquaponicsNYC]

Don't you think your trickle plate would have worked better if you turned it upside down?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there.. I tried it both ways & it worked best at getting the water evenly to the edge this way.. When up the other way water didn't fall as evenly as there was a ridge that stopped the water making it to the very edge & it tended to over flow at one point more like a waterfall.. The plate should really be flat & also cover the entire surface of the media as I mentioned in the clip.. One will be made especially for this filter that fits perfectly at a later date when some materials can be found that suit the job.. Just needed to do it then & used the materials I had on hand ;) Cheers & have a great one, Rob..

[@jonathansofer680]

do you have a plumbing plan that set up sir.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Gabriel. I don't have one that I'm sharing as I didn't feel it worked as efficiently as it could. This one was put together using the limited knowledge I had at that time & didn't want others to copy my mistakes ;) Cheers.

[@GreenFishAcuaponia]

That's amazing, man! Thanks a lot for sharing!

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Daniel Muñoz No problem Daniel. Cheers mate.

[@SouthpawDavey]

Nice one mate I would love to try fish farm maybe one day. Just have to enjoy yours for now ;-)

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Dave & our more than welcome to.. Could use a hand moving some bits around today If you want to lend a hand mate ;) Cheers & all the best to you & yours :)

[@SouthpawDavey]

Get some cold ones in I will be over in a bit :-)

[@RobsAquaponics]

Southpaw Davey :D :/ Might need to bring your own Dave.. Fridge is nearly dry ;) Is Spiced Rum OK??

[@SouthpawDavey]

Well beggars cant be chooses;-) just looking at your update. Glad to see it going well mate. Ill ask the boss for some pocket money and get a six pack ;-)

[@qijoe2487]

hey rob, thanks for your shared videeo, it is awsome, i am your follower. Just a quick question, i have some IBC tank, some are missing lid, some are missing tap, do you know what can i use to seal them ?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there. What did you want to use them for? The reason I ask is that I've seen folks cut them in half down the centre seam, lay them on their side & use them as 500L/125gal tanks or they could be cut down further & used as grow beds in an aquaponic system too. You could get in contact with drum & IBC recycle places & see if they have any spate taps or lids. The only other way I can think of sealing them is by plastic welding them. Hope that helps a bit & sorry for the slow reply. Cheers.

[@qijoe2487]

tks for your reply, yes, i did a bit research before get your reply, it is true that i can cut and lay on the side. Great Helps. also, do you know anyway to paint the IBC, as i get some ibc from different sources, so if i can paint or decorate someway, it will make them look nice.

[@RobsAquaponics]

There are some specialist plastic paints that can now be bought but I haven't tried them myself as they are expensive. I know some that have had got acrylic paint to stick by softly sanding the plastic to create a rough surface for the paint to stick onto if that helps any.

[@ShaneOReilly]

Hey mate. I’m trying to set up a filtration system similar to yours, I’m just a little stuck on the bio filter and aerating it. Do you have a video on how you put your filter system together? Cheers.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Shane. Not at the moment mate but have one in the works. 👍 Once we move I'll be working on it & a few other component clips. Sorry I'm not much help mate.

[@ShaneOReilly]

All good mate. I think I have a fair idea of how best to do it. Just wanted to check with “the man”.😂🤙

[@rodrigol6530]

Hi, where can I found more information? Website? Thanks you.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Rodrigo.. I post mainly here on KZbin.. What sort of information are you chasing? Cheers..

[@twebster1948]

Hi Rob, I couldn't see if anyone else asked... what company makes the little (1717 gph) bilge pump you featured? I am always fascinated and informed by your videos. Please keep producing these great helps.

[@RobsAquaponics]

T Webster Hi mate & thanks.. The pump I'm using is a Jebao CM6500.. Very low power usage at 40W but was a tad too small to run this system.. It's taken a bit of a hammering as it's used at least 4 times a week to clean filters & top up sump tanks.. Has been clogged up with biomedia a few times but has kept pumping away quite happily ;) Cheers & all the best.. Rob..

[@MikeV607]

A trickle filter is not meant to culture particulate matter, but rather a greater beneficial bacteria colony due to the increased oxygen created by the 'trickle' stream. For solids, you really need filtration sponge, mesh, fabric, or floss....and to clean those regularly so as not to foul your bio-media with detritus. Also, the purpose of the moving bed media IS to knock off older BB to culture an ongoing population of younger, more aggressive bacteria...at least that's the theory. I like the idea of both a trickle filter for increased aerobic bacteria AND a deep bed filter to also culture anaerobic bacteria to convert nitrates to N2 gas.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Mike. I understand how a trickle filter works & it's purpose. 👍 The MBBR Set up in this rudimentary trickle configuration also did a fantastic job at collecting the fine solids, as you see in the clip, while still providing bio filtration as a trickle filter normally does. It was suggested to me to run the filter like this to collect the fine solids due to the light biomass load at the time by Paul Van who has many years of commercial design & construction in the aquaculture industry. As I showed in the clip the system was then reconfigured into a MBBR once the fine solids were removed. Cheers & have a top one.

[@amazingbobby5886]

can this filtration system be used for intensive aquaculture. for one 3000 liter tank and have 1500 kg of fish at one go?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Not as it's shown here but a trickle filter of sorts could be part of the design along with other bio & solids filtration methods. I would think a commercial drum filter would be a great benefit in a system like that. You would be best consulting an aquaculture system designer with a 1 fish per litre stocking density as it's far more than most backyarders would use. This site might have a few ideas you could use as it's run by an experienced aquaculture designer that has built & consulted on commercial systems allover the world. earthanedge.com/ You do have to pay a fee to join but it's well worth it for the experience that you'll have at your fingertips. Hope that helps some.

[@amazingbobby5886]

Rob Bob's Backyard Farming thanks for the site address. the site looks really good specially the 6 tank of 1000 liter tank guide would have been really helpful for me but unfortunately the place i stay does not allow any foreign payment outwards. however, i was wondering that if i have total 8 diy 100 gallon bucket filters (3 mechanical filter and 5 bio filter e.g. 1 lava rock, 1 scrubs filter and 3 buckets filled with kaldness type media,where one is moving bed) will it be sufficient if i stock 1 fish per liter for 2000 liter fish tank? your feed back will be really appreciated. thanks

[@RobsAquaponics]

From my rudimentary understanding you would need a lot more bio & solids filtration than that for that stocking rate but I'm really not qualified to give you specks that could help & if I was there more than likely be an invoice attached. 😉 The largest system I've built is the one in this clip & it's layout is designed to run with a density a fraction of the size you're planing. The stocking density you're planing on will need constant monitoring as things can go pear shaped very quickly in aquaculture systems. I'd suggest you do a course or ask the help of a qualified designer before investing much time or $$ into the build. Sorry I'm not much help but I have to be honest. Cheers.

[@amazingbobby5886]

Rob Bob's Backyard Farming thanks a lot. no worries btw wats yr density stocking

[@RobsAquaponics]

In that one it was 1 fish per 20L which is about as high as I'd go in any backyard system 👍

[@ChileExpatFamily]

How many fish do you have per a system? I need to know how many trout to buy.

[@RobsAquaponics]

That depends on the amount of biological surface area you have in your filter media as it is really the bacteria that will dictate how many fish you can have in a system.. Are you building a fish farm or an aquaponic system ? Cheers

[@ChileExpatFamily]

Rob Bob I am going to build an Aquaponics system here in Chile.

[@RobsAquaponics]

ChileExpatFamily Nice one.. Will be great to see what you come up with..

[@RonGordon]

How do you lower your PH from 8 to 6.5

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Ron.. I used hydrochloric pool acid before the fish went into the system to bring the pH down.. I set it up so 5:1 water acid mix would slowly drip into the sump as the water was flowing through the system.. Would turn the tap off after 6 or so hours, let the water circulate for a 6 or so hours & test to see if the pH bounced back up.. Stuffed up the first time I did used this method BTW as the tap was a tad faulty, not the operator ;-) Second time it worked like a charm.. An easier way to do it is to just add a cap full every 12 hours into circulating water (with no fish in it) then wait another 12 or so before testing & adding more if needed. Just quickly on the "bounce", it's due to the carbonate alkalinity of the water.. The carbonates are neutralizing hydrogen ions in the acid.. You may get a jump in pH once the available hydrogen ions are used up depending on the level of carbonates in the water.. The first time I tried to condition top up water I had the pH drop from 8 to 5 then bounce back up to mid to high 7's which really confused me.. Now I don't bother to add the acid to top up water as the alkalinity in it helps bring up the pH from being so low ;)Hope that helps some Ron..Rob.. .

[@dionytiusdias]

For a technical person this video is funny as hell .... i dont know if anyone gets it but, yeah nice setup.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Whats so funny about it? The information or my approach? Cheers.

[@dionytiusdias]

@@RobsAquaponics hey! Hi .... You saw my comment. Yes your approach, techniques used in the system (clever) and things that you mock like using super powered air stone and saying it's just about enough. Am working on advance agriculture in India. Keep up the good work.

[@scott98390]

Paul's trickle filter clip is private! Help!

[@Mbuzisana]

Would appreciate if you could assist me on the relevance of a biofilter and how to procure (source other ways in getting) beneficial bacteria in controlling algae.?

[@RobsAquaponics]

A Biofilters job is to house the bacteria that convert ammonia into nitrates. The best way to illuminate algae is to limit the amount of sunlight the water in the system is exposed to.

[@jerryprewett5294]

Rob Bob i started to raise meal worms last yr..could i use them to feed fish in tanks

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Jerry :) Meal worms would work for the Jades I've been told.. Also looking at starting off a cricket farm as well as I've found that the large Jades really like the grasshoppers we've been tossing in.. Just need to finish off the jobs above it on the list first ;) Cheers, Rob..

[@Mbuzisana]

Good setup.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks Moses.

[@raymondanthony3651]

Hello there my name is Raymond and im cycling my aquaponics system. I have an ibc tote with a swirl filter for the solids (works quite well.. and that skims to a sump.. However I have cycled thru a spike on amonia and thru the spike on nitrite.. but it stays pretty high.. would this mean I need a Bio filter?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi there Raymond... Bio Filters aren't necessary for all systems as long as you have enough bio filtration (growing media) in the grow beds..Sometimes it just takes longer for the bacteria to establish themselves.. Will see if I can help.. How old is the system you have there? What ppm is the nitrite readings? Cheers..

[@raymondanthony3651]

It's about 3 weeks old and the nitrite is about 5 ppm

[@RobsAquaponics]

Glamis itsasandthin I think you just need to give it more time Raymond.. Can take up to 3 months to cycle depending on climate & time of year.. Whereabouts are you ? Have you salted the system to protect the fish from nitrite poisoning/brown blood disease ?

[@mollydolly869]

I love your creativity... your videos are just facinating. Are you an engineer?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi MollyDolly... Not an engineer at all but have access to a retired one if need be ;) Picked up a lot of the information & ideas from very helpful folks like Paul Van from Earthan Group as well as other folks that post on YT & forums.. Thanks & hope you have a great weekend :) Rob..

[@JeriDro]

I enjoy your videos, sir

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks & hope they give you a few ideas to play with. Have a great one.

[@karimjundi2941]

Great video, love the setup... Gave a lot of new ideas that I would like to try out some day. How do you get the fingerlings to get sucked up into your SLO?

[@RobsAquaponics]

HI there.. Thanks & glad it's given you some food for thought.. I have some veggi net around the base of the SLO to stop the fingerlings from getting sucked through to the radial flow filter.. It has been clogging up a bit so needs cleaning every second day or so otherwise the fish tanks tend to overflow :/ Did a bit of a "show & tell" on the update clip that was posted the other day if you're interested.. Backyard Aquaculture Update, Cycling the System.. 3rd June 2014 Cheers & have a great one, Rob..

[@onebigkahuna69]

Rob built the first one and painted and it leaks!! lol i just bought some Marine silicone and added it 3M brand and it says it may take 7 days for it to set.Its been very cold here so i don't know how its going to do.?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Is that the chop & flip mate? Hope that's the only one you get. 👍

[@onebigkahuna69]

@@RobsAquaponics Yeah and the only thing i did not do is split the flow.I think i'm getting to much water.The syphon last about four minutes and then i just now checked and it refills in about 6 minutes before it starts to drain again.

[@gittensshashafii37]

what if you use one filter four each fish tank the tank I getting is IBC AND I WONT TO BUY TWO

[@tipsclallalcs8223]

how many fish to square ft for Plants and how many fish per tank

[@RobsAquaponics]

+Tip Sclallalcs Will be covering stocking density for backyard systems in an up coming clip. How many plants per f² depends on variables like feed rates, climate & types of plants grown so I don't like to make recommendations being only a backyarder. You will find different "experts" will have different recommendations. 2 blokes that know what they're talking about are Paul Van from Earthan Group & Dr Wilson Lennard. Links below. Hope that helps. articles.earthanedge.com/ www.aquaponic.com.au/calculators.htm

[@vincentallen5058]

Hi Rob. Great video! Because your trickle filter is constantly covered by a lid, have you had any issues with a lack of oxygen reaching the bacteria?

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hi Vincent. Had no problems mate & the media came out smelling fine when the system was dismantled 👍 No sign of anaerobic activity at all. Cheers mate.

[@mikehotel02]

Hi Rob, I ran across a video on how to make your own DIY Bio Balls cheeply i would like your take on it, it's a vid from Agri-Tech with Pierre "DIY Bio Balls for Aquaponics". cheers mate.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Mike. I've seen it but am not sure I'd use them. I think that they will collect a load of solids in the centre over time which could be an issue if they can't be cleaned easily. Cheers mate.

[@mikehotel02]

@@RobsAquaponics thanks Rob cheers.

[@davidvasquez3564]

I have fish pond on my yard and to keep water clear I use an ultraviolet light on the inlet line.

[@douglascunningham6319]

Has anybody ever thought of using clams as a last stage filter before going back into the fish tanks?

[@RobsAquaponics]

I've seen folks use native fresh water muscles here to help clean some of the solids that accumulate in the sump tanks. Not all species are suitable though. Might be something to look into.

[@stephenritho7307]

hey Rob..great work.how can i contact you.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Hey Stephen.. Was it you that sent me a PM through FaceBook..

[@stephenritho7307]

Rob Bob yeah it was me.And am very grateful for the response I hope to communicate regularly.

[@deadfred821]

🤔That seemed a lot more simple than you had initially explained....

[@RobsAquaponics]

Not sure what you mean after re watching again. I like to explain as much as I can as I go as it tends to reduce the amounts of questions I get as they tend to chew up a lot of my time. Hope the clip helped some.

[@deadfred821]

@@RobsAquaponics Touché; better to have more info than not enough. And as someone who has only bought a little PVC & has yet to get my first barrel or bed, you've been an invaluable resource thus far. I'm thinking my first go may be a replica of your three bed system with the single bell siphon drain to drain to the sump. Haven't decided what kind of mechanical filter to use yet (bead vs. swirl), but it's still winter here, so I got a month or two to get all my supplies. You've been a great help. Thanks for sharing and spreading the knowledge...👍🏽

[@RobsAquaponics]

@@deadfred821 I'd go with a radial flow settler, they work a lot better than the swirl. 😉 Hope the build goes well mate. Cheers.

[@deadfred821]

@@RobsAquaponics thanks brother. I'll let you know...

[@TheCasaresway]

The problem you had was an alge bloom. Use phosphate remover and the water will clear. Your welcome. Although idk the effect the phosphate remover will have on the farm so good luck!

[@RobsAquaponics]

Daniel Casares this clip was shot a few years ago and this system has since been taken down. Ended up using a uv filter to get on top of the algae. Cheers