Can hydroponic plants support fish? A guide to the symbiotic relationship between fish and plants in a hydroponic system.

Can you keep fish in hydroponic plants?When the hydroponic epipremnum aureum in a transparent glass bottle meets the ornamental fish swimming around, this combination of movement and stillness always triggers endless imagination. Can the hydroponic system truly achieve symbiosis between fish and plants? This article will deeply analyze the feasibility of coexistence between hydroponic plants and fish, and reveal the key points of creating an ecological symbiotic system.Principles of Operation of the Aquaponic Symbiotic SystemMechanism of Material Circulation in Symbiotic EcosystemThe plant roots absorb nitrogen, phosphorus, and other elements produced by the decomposition of fish excrement in the water to achieve growth, while the oxygen released by the roots maintains the survival of the fish. This natural nutrient cycle forms the basis of symbiosis. However, attention should be paid to the efficiency of nitrifying bacteria in converting ammonia nitrogen, which directly determines the stability of the system.Golden Ratio of Container DesignIt is recommended to use a wide-mouth glass container with a capacity > 5L, where the proportion of plant roots should not exceed 40%, leaving 60% of the water space. The water level should be maintained 3-5cm away from the container mouth to prevent fish from jumping out and ensure proper air circulation. Shallow-rooted plants like epipremnum aureum and dracaena fragrans are more suitable for this type of symbiotic system.Five Key Elements to Achieve Fish-Plant SymbiosisScientific Selection of Fish SpeciesThe first choice is low-oxygen-tolerant fish from the Cyprinodontidae family, such as guppies and moonlight fish, with a body length controlled within 3cm. The rule of 1cm of fish length per liter of water must be strictly followed; excessive overcrowding can lead to a crisis of dissolved oxygen.Core Techniques for Water ManagementChange 1/3 of the water weekly and clean the inside of the container, using chlorine-free water that has been exposed to sunlight for two days. Maintain the water temperature between 18-28°C, using LED grow lights to stabilize the temperature. The nitrate concentration should be <40ppm, which can be monitored regularly with a water quality testing kit.Accurate Control of Nutritional BalanceAvoid using hydroponic nutrient solutions containing heavy metals like copper and zinc, and recommend using special fish-vegetable symbiotic fertilizers. Add EM bacteria solution at a ratio of 1:1000 to promote the decomposition of organic matter. Supplement with chelated iron fertilizer 2-3 drops per month to prevent yellowing of the plant leaves.The key to successfully creating an aquaponic fish-plant symbiotic system lies in maintaining dynamic balance. By precisely controlling the container space, fish density, and water replacement frequency, combined with scientific water quality monitoring and nutritional supplementation, it is fully possible to achieve协同 growth of green plants and fish. It is recommended for beginners to start with the classic combination of zebra danios and epipremnum aureum, gradually mastering ecological regulation techniques.