Unit 3: Phase 3: Designing and Implementing a Full Aquaponics System

Students will know how to design a complete aquaponics system that integrates fish, bacteria, and plants.
Students will understand how plant biomass affects nutrient cycling.
Students will recognize differences between decorative plants and farmable crops in aquaponics.
Students will understand how water flow design impacts system function.

Students will create a full system blueprint.
Students will select crops based on nutrient demand and growth characteristics.
Students will construct a plant grow system connected to the fish tank.
Students will conduct a comparative growth experiment using aquaponic water, tap water, and fertilized water.
Students will analyze nitrate reduction and plant productivity.

System blueprint
Plant selection justification
Comparative growth data table
Written evaluation of aquaponic productivity and sustainability