Aquaponics & Aquariums
Aquaponics combines fish keeping with plant growing, creating a natural system where fish and plants support each other. In an aquaponic setup, fish produce nutrients through waste, which beneficial bacteria convert into forms plants can absorb. The plants help filter the water, which is then returned clean to the fish.
Aquariums can also play a role in indoor gardening, whether as part of a full aquaponic system or as a simple way to grow plants using nutrient-rich water from fish tanks. Many growers enjoy experimenting with small aquaponic systems to grow herbs, leafy greens, and other plants indoors.
Common Fish Used in Aquaponics Systems
Aquaponics systems can use many types of fish depending on the size of the system. Small aquarium fish are often used in desktop or classroom aquaponics systems, while larger ornamental fish may be used in ponds or larger tanks. The table below lists fish that are commonly used in aquaponics along with their approximate adult size.
Important: IncrediGrow Garden Centre does not sell fish and we do not have information on where to purchase them. We also do not provide advice on fish care or fish husbandry. This table is provided for general educational purposes only. Always check local regulations before acquiring fish for aquaponics systems. Never release aquarium fish into the wild!
| Fish Species | Typical Adult Size | Preferred Temperature | Notes for Aquaponics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endler’s Livebearer | 1 in (2.5 cm) | 22–28°C | Very small fish sometimes used in nano or classroom aquaponics systems. |
| Guppy | 1.5–2.5 in (4–6 cm) | 22–28°C | Hardy and easy to breed. Common in small indoor aquaponics setups. |
| White Cloud Mountain Minnow | 1.5 in (4 cm) | 16–22°C | Tolerates cooler water and is sometimes used in unheated systems. |
| Zebra Danio | 2–2.5 in (5–6 cm) | 18–25°C | Very hardy fish commonly used in aquaponics research and educational systems. |
| Betta Fish | 2.5–3 in (6–7 cm) | 24–30°C | Often used in small decorative aquaponic planters. Usually kept alone due to territorial behavior. |
| Platy | 2–3 in (5–7 cm) | 22–26°C | Peaceful livebearer that adapts well to beginner aquaponic tanks. |
| Molly | 3–4 in (7–10 cm) | 24–28°C | Hardy fish that tolerate varying water conditions. |
| Goldfish | 6–12 in (15–30 cm) | 18–24°C | One of the most common fish used in hobby aquaponics systems. |
| Cichlids (including Tilapia) | 8–16 in (20–40 cm) | 24–30°C | Fast-growing fish commonly used in aquaponics systems. |
| Koi | 24–36 in (60–90 cm) | 15–25°C | Large ornamental fish used in pond-based aquaponic systems. |
