Uploaded January 2017 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Aquaponicists utilize the natural function of fish and microbes to get their crops the nitrogen they need. Of course, nitrogen enters this system in a different form than what the plants take up. Before nitrogen is usable by plants, it must be transformed from the protein in fish feed to nitrates. This happens through several steps that make up nitrification.
The end result of of the cycle is nitrates. To increase nitrates in a stable system (well-cycled), aquaponic growers can increase the amount of feed or increase the protein content of their feed.
If you’re matching feed addition to plant consumption, you’ll know because your nitrates will level out or drop. If nitrate levels are increasing, you’re adding too much feed or you’re adding a feed with too high a protein content. Here are your goal numbers:
Ammonia: Less that 2 ppmNitrite:Less than 1 ppm, ideally less than .5 ppmNitrate: Up to 160 ppm, consistent levels
For more free videos, check out Upstart University and start your free trial today! university.upstartfarmers.com/limited-trial/?ref=43
Want to know more about aquaponic system management? Enroll in the full course! university.upstartfarmers.com/lessons/lesson-9-system-management/?ref=43
Aquaponicists utilize the natural function of fish and microbes to get their crops the nitrogen they need. Of course, nitrogen enters this system in a different form than what the plants take up. Before nitrogen is usable by plants, it must be transformed from the protein in fish feed to nitrates. This happens through several steps that make up nitrification.
The end result of of the cycle is nitrates. To increase nitrates in a stable system (well-cycled), aquaponic growers can increase the amount of feed or increase the protein content of their feed.
If you’re matching feed addition to plant consumption, you’ll know because your nitrates will level out or drop. If nitrate levels are increasing, you’re adding too much feed or you’re adding a feed with too high a protein content. Here are your goal numbers:
Ammonia: Less that 2 ppmNitrite:Less than 1 ppm, ideally less than .5 ppmNitrate: Up to 160 ppm, consistent levels
For more free videos, check out Upstart University and start your free trial today! university.upstartfarmers.com/limited-trial/?ref=43
Want to know more about aquaponic system management? Enroll in the full course! university.upstartfarmers.com/lessons/lesson-9-system-management/?ref=43
