Water Temperature in Aquaponics

In life and, more importantly, in aquaponics everything is about balance. As an aquaponic farmer, you will constantly feel like you’re walking on a tightrope while holding multiple porcelain plates. Each plate representing an important parameter that needs to constantly be monitored in your system.

Water temperature is probably one of the most precious plates in the balancing act. So, what is the optimal water temperature in an aquaponic system? Let’s, walk through the importance of water temperature and teach you how to balance.

Plants

If your water is too hot or too cold you could send your plants into stress. A water temperature that is too hot will cause wilting, slimy roots, restricted absorption of certain nutrients and sometimes even death. Whereas cooler water temperatures can lead to reduced growth.

Fish

Due to their cold-blooded nature, fish struggle to adapt to a wide range of water temperatures. You want to keep your fish in their optimal temperature range to ensure rapid growth, reduced risk of diseases and efficient feed conversions. It’s important to note that different fish species have different optimal conditions so once again make sure you know your fish well. Moreover, fish are fussy eaters. But not in the way that you might think. Their appetite depends on the temperature of the water. If the temperature drops or increases past a certain point your fish will stop eating.

A temperature rise can cause an increased metabolism and oxygen demand so remember to adjust accordingly as the seasons change.  The solubility of toxic substances also increases as the temperature increases. So, monitor this carefully to avoid any other imbalances in your system.

Nitrifying Bacteria

Without your bacteria functioning at their optimal capacity, you will have some problems on your hands. The best temperature range for bacteria is between 17°C – 34°C.

Well, in all honesty, it depends on your fish, your crops, your location, your setup and your climate. But here are a few guidelines regarding the best water temperature.

• Choose fish and crops that grow best in your area. Trying to replicate an optimal environment that is drastically different from the one you’re in can be costly.
• Plant seasonally, don’t try and grow a winter crop in the summer. Let’s not create problems where there aren’t any.
• Yes, your fish might like a warmer climate but we don’t recommend going above 25°C as your plants will struggle to absorb their required nutrients.
• Take our word for it when we say that water temperature balancing with plant Root Zone temperatures is critical for optimal success.
• We strongly recommend considering cooling towers, geothermal and biogas digesters as a part of a commercial design. It’s costly upfront but it will save you money and time in the long run.

In summary, you just need to find your BALANCE! Try and find a water temperature the caters to both your fish and your plants. If you need some advice on what is best for your specific plants and fish then book a consultation with us. We would be happy to assist. Also, check out our shop for all water temperature related equipment. From one fellow tightrope walker to another, we wish you the best of luck in your balancing act.