Assessing Aquaponic Performance in Himachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

Aquaponics, an integrated system that combines hydroponics and aquaculture, provides a sustainable method of producing food by effectively recycling nutrients and conserving water. Coriandrum sativum, Spinacia oleracea, Chenopodium album, and Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) were supported by nutrient film technique (NFT) pipes in the aquaponic system. Temperature (16.33 ± 4.90 °C), pH (7.60 ± 0.21), dissolved oxygen (6.59 ± 0.16 mg/L), and ammonia (0.0017 ± 0.0007 mg/L) all stayed within ideal values in aquaponics, indicating efficient nutrient cycling and stable environmental conditions. While modest correlations for ammonia and nitrite demonstrated better nitrogen management in aquaponics, strong positive correlations (R² > 0.89) for pH, EC, DO, alkalinity, and nitrate showed comparable stability across aquaponic and pond systems. With net weight improvements of 113.45 g and 141.3 g and FCR values of 2.68 and 3.34, respectively, C. carpio and C. idella demonstrated noteworthy fish development. When compared to field cultivation (35.01 cm), aquaponics considerably increased plant growth, especially for C. album (44.5 cm). These results show that in temperate Himalayan circumstances, aquaponics maintains superior water quality, promotes fish growth, and increases vegetable yield. According to the study's findings, aquaponics is a practical, resource-efficient, and climate-resilient substitute for traditional farming and aquaculture systems in areas with limited water and land. Current research exhibits potential of aquaponics as a sustainable farming method which further enhances water efficiency and food security amidst global land constrains.