A closed loop
Aquaponics combines fish farming with plant cultivation in a shared water cycle. The water from the fish tanks is first cleaned by a brush filter and then passed through a biofilter. There, microorganisms convert the nitrite into nitrate, making it available to the plants. The treated water then nourishes the plants and finally returns to the fish. The biofilter is the heart of the system and is essential for maintaining stable water parameters.
As described by the project participants, these are natural biological processes that also take place in lakes and ponds – but in a controlled and technically supported system.
African catfish as ideal inhabitants
African hybrid catfish were chosen for fish production. This fish species is particularly well-suited for recirculating aquaculture systems because it
- tolerates high stocking densities
- is robust and a
- very good feed conversion . Additionally, the animals possess
- In addition to their gills, they have a lung-like organ, which allows them to remain resilient even under more demanding conditions.
At the time of the presentation, there were approximately 300 fish in the facility. The larger and smaller fish were kept separately to ensure uniform growth.
Photos from the aquaponics project team
Plant area
In the plant area, various types of lettuce , as well as basil and parsley, were cultivated. Different production systems were used. In addition to a so-called raft system , in which the plants grow directly on the water, an NFT system with water-carrying channels was also tested.
Observations so far show that the raft system in particular yielded very good results in terms of plant growth. At the same time, the students were able to gain important insights into the requirements of different crops and production methods.
Technology and automation as an important component
A key focus of the project was the technical implementation. The facility was equipped with various automation solutions , including an automatic feeder, digital control systems , and monitoring and control technology. The project team dealt intensively with issues of power supply, sensors, data acquisition, and process control.
The development and integration of the automated feeding system was a particularly important milestone. The technical solutions significantly reduced the ongoing maintenance effort. At the same time, valuable experience was gained in the field of modern agricultural technology and digitalization. The project team would therefore like to extend its sincere thanks to Manuel Großeibner, who generously and openly shared his practical experience with his aquaponics system with our team and was always available to offer advice and support.
Learning through practice
In addition to the technical insights, the focus was primarily on practical learning. The project group, consisting of [names of participants], planned the system independently, organized material procurement and implementation, collaborated with external experts, and acquired knowledge from a wide variety of fields.
The experience gained in project management, teamwork, organization, and problem-solving was particularly highlighted. Many challenges could only be overcome through personal initiative, research, and the principle of "learning by doing.".
Pictures from the press conference
Future potential for sustainable food production
The project group sees great potential for the future in aquaponics. The combined production of fish and plants enables the efficient use of water, nutrients, and land. At the same time, the system combines biological processes with modern automation and opens up new possibilities for innovative forms of food production.
The diploma thesis impressively demonstrates how practical training, technical innovation, and sustainable agriculture can be combined at the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein. It exemplifies the high value placed on research, initiative, and applied learning in the education of future specialists in the agricultural and food sectors.
Statement from our partner company (Manuel Großeiber)
Aquaponics has fascinated me from the very beginning because it demonstrates how intelligently natural cycles can function. The idea of keeping fish and plants in a shared system where both benefit from each other is captivating. At the same time, it offers the opportunity to meaningfully apply my craftsmanship and engineering knowledge to the sustainable production of high-quality food.
What I find particularly fascinating is how efficiently resources can be used. With relatively little water and space, high-quality fish and fresh vegetables can be produced simultaneously. The combination of nature, technology, and food production is what makes aquaponics so exciting for me.
I see great future potential for aquaponics. Regional food products, short transport routes, and a conscious use of resources are becoming increasingly important. Austria is still heavily dependent on imports for edible fish.
Aquaponics can help make domestic fish and vegetable production more sustainable, independent and future-proof, and strengthen regional supply.
Developing, commissioning, and maintaining the existing system would not have been possible without Manuel Großeiber, our partner company. He provided invaluable support and guidance and made a significant contribution to the success of our thesis. We extend our sincere thanks for the truly excellent collaboration.
Fact sheet with our experiences and tips on aquaponics systems
We will expand this article as more information on aquaponics becomes available. We plan to publish the diploma thesis and share experiences with tips and tricks related to aquaponics. You can send your questions via
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