2. Bigger is Better: Why It’s Best to Start Big with Aquaponics (this would be relatively short, perhaps 400 words)

Bigger Is Better: Why It’s Best to Start Big with Aquaponics

While it may be tempting to start small if you are new to aquaponics, there are many reasons to do just the opposite. Many mistakenly believe that a small tank will be easier to maintain. After all, smaller tanks seem easier to clean, and they have less water to change. However, it is actually much easier for beginner aquaponics gardeners to start with large systems. Take a look at the reasons why, below.

1. The pH levels, bacteria levels, and virtually everything else in a small tank can fluctuate much more rapidly than in a large tank. If you are new to aquaponics, it will likely take a little time to get your system’s levels just right. In the beginning, you may make some mistakes, or you may do everything correctly and still lose some fish. With the death of just one fish, ammonia levels can skyrocket. Having a larger tank means having more time to trouble shoot before disaster ensues.
2. Larger tanks will reduce fish aggression. We all know that fish aggression is a concern for those with any aquarium setup, and aquaponics is no exception. Ensuring the fish have more than adequate room to swim, breathe, eat and establish their own territories will prevent fish from becoming aggressive.
3. Larger tanks mean more room for algae and bacteria buildup before it must be addressed. Algae can take over a 10 gallon aquarium much faster than it can take over a 50 gallon aquarium, so while the 10 gallon may appear to be simpler to maintain, the 50 gallon is actually much easier.
4. Larger tanks allow for larger grow beds. A 1:1 tank to grow bed ratio is recommended, especially for beginners, but that ratio can usually be stretched a bit to grow even more. Having a larger fish tank means you will need a larger grow bed, but that also means more potential food growth, making your efforts much more worthwhile.
5. The most stable aquaponics systems have 250 gallon tanks. Consider that you need an entire 50 gallons to raise just one fish to 12 inches long. If you plan on ensuring that you have a steady supply of fish to harvest, you will need a tank at least five times that size. In addition, considering the space needed for fish to grow, 250 gallons ensures that there is likely plenty of room for most fish. The extra space will ensure they grow to healthier and bigger sizes.
6. You’ll likely have to redo a great deal of work if you expand your system later. Pipes may need to be upgraded to reflect the longer lengths needed, and new equipment (such as heaters and lights) may have to be purchased to better accommodate the new larger tank. Starting larger means you will have fewer things to change if you later decide you want to expand your system.

In conclusion, it can be tempting to start your system small. While it looks like less trouble, however, it is exactly the opposite. Changes take place much more slowly in larger systems, allowing the beginner time to research and understand an issue before it begins to affect the wildlife inside the system.