In aquaponics, growers use the symbiotic relationship of the fish and plants to get the best result.  Ammonia is excreted by fish or any aquatic creatures raised in tanks. The bacteria then converts it to nitrite which nurtures the plants as they grow.

Choosing the top fishes to raise in your aquaponic system is crucial to your success. If you’re raising the right ones, you can provide the organic fertilizers to your plants. In case you put the wrong fish in the tanks, don’t be surprised if you don’t get the results you’re expecting. As a grower, you need to do your homework before getting the fingerlings. Each fish has its own advantages and disadvantages. Look for the ones that will go along well with your plans.

Here are the top 5 fish for aquaponics:

1. Tilapia – they are recommended by many aquaponic growers because of their resilience in almost any water condition. Tilapia also grow a lot faster than the other fishes used in aquaponics. In addition, they are quite delicious which makes them a mainstream in many aquaponic farms. Tilapia can also breed rapidly especially in a good environment. They can easily out-populate the other fishes. This is why tilapia farming is banned in most parts of America.
2. Catfish – carnivorous fish like the catfish can consume large amount of foods in a single meal. Catfish are voracious aquatic creatures that can give you a good amount of waste in a short period of time. Just like with tilapia, they can survive even the poorest water condition in the tank. Commercially, they make up most of the demand for fish in the United States. This is why most of the fish ponds as well as aquaponic farms prefer growing catfish.
3. Trout – the trout have a very fast growth rate. They are also voracious carnivores which feeds on other fishes and soft bodied aquatic invertebrates. Trouts are commonly raised on aquaponic farms because of their ability to supply the needed fertilizers.
4. Perch – just like with the other fishes, perch also grow at a faster rate. You’ll be surprised how fast the fingerlings have grown in a short period of time. Perch are also capable of adapting to the changing of the pH level of the water. However, you should wait a little longer before you can eat them at their desirable size. Perch takes a year to 18 months before they reach their edible size.
5. Koi – if you fancy colorful fishes, then raising koi can be an exciting task. Although you won’t benefit from eating them, you can actually make money from selling koi. In fact, these magnificent looking fishes command a huge price in the market. Koi are commonly raised in aquariums because of their beautiful colors and markings.