Aquaponics – the circular food production system

Aquaponic technology continues to attract a lot of attention around the globe, especially in the context of urban farming. But how exactly does an aquaponics system work and more important what knowledge do I need to successfully run an aquaponics system? In this course, you will obtain answers to these questions. The curriculum will give you an understanding of central topics in the field of aquaponics. Aquaponics is a circulation technology based on a broad knowledge base: from water chemistry, fish and plant physiology, to engineering and microbiology. It can thus serve as a learning model for inter-and transdisciplinary thinking and acting.

This course is for:

• Everyone interested in Aquaponics with a basic understanding of natural sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) on undergraduate degree level
• Professionals in the sector of Aquaculture and Hydroponics
• Aquaponic practitioners who want to gain additional knowledge on specific topics

To run an aquaponic system you need broad knowledge ranging from water chemistry, fish and plant physiology, to engineering and entrepreneurial thinking. Therefore, the course is structured into six main topics:

• Basic Principles of Aquaponics
  Basics of Aquaponics; Opportunities, Risks, Challenges, and Limitations; Aquaponics and Urban Agriculture, a global perspective
• Aquaculture Part 1
  Fish Anatomy and Physiology; Feeding and Growth; Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture
• Aquaculture Part 2
  Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) Engineering; Management; Calculations
• Hydroponic Part 1
  Hydroponic Systems; Plant Anatomy, Physiology and Growth Requirements; Nutrient Supply
• Hydroponic Part 2
  Plant Varieties; Plant Monitoring; Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
• Aquaponic System Design and Calculation of Dimensions
  System Design and Planning; Calculating the Dimensions of your Aquaponic System

To enhance your learning, you will have access to videos, course literature, forum contributions, discussions, practical sessions, individual work, and quizzes. In week 6, as a project, you will design an aquaponic system and calculate its dimensions.