Aquaponics Post #4
1. Hypothesis: If we grow basil (Ocimum basilicum), watercress (Nasturtium officinale), and cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) in the same aquaponics system, then watercress will show the best growth (determined by leaf length, width, and overall coloration of the plant).
​
2. Quotes: “Watercress is a perennial leaf vegetable plant well suited for aquaponics.” “...right plant to grow in aquaponics as a small piece of watercress will very divide and grow rapidly…”
Citation: Plants that go crazy in Aquaponics. (2011, August 29). Retrieved January 11, 2019, from http://www.ecofilms.com.au/plants-that-go-crazy-in-aquaponics/
​
3. Independent Variable: The type of plant grown.
4. Dependent Variable: The growth of the plants.
​
5. Control Variables: Exposure to light, growth medium, type of fish, and same amount of water.
6. Experimental Group: The basil, watercress, and cilantro grown in the aquaponcis system.
​
7. Control Group: Watercress, basil, and cilantro that is grown in normal soil.
​
8. One challenge that we have faced is the removal of hydroton that had mold which grew over winter break. Another challenge is the immature behavior of 6th or 7th period, who put paper in the aquarium (which killed fish) and putting hydroton in our aquarium and the bell siphon.
​
9. Our experiment will be a success if we are able to determine if watercress, basil, or cilantro is able to better sustain and grow in a low budget aquaponics system.
​
10. Our experiment looks at which plant is able to best convert nutrients and energy into plant growth (determined by leaf length, width, as well as the height and overall coloration of the plant).
11. The picture to the left shows the aquaponics system without fish or plants, but with the grow lamp on. The picture to the right shows the aquaponics system without fish or plants, but with the grow light off.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
12. The first reading showed ammonia and nitrate levels that would be harmful to the fish. The second water reading showed levels of ammonia and nitrate that are livable for the fish.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
