CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago State University has completed a new aquaponics system.
Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture — or fish farming — with hydroponics — or raising plants in water instead of soil.
The university's new facility has four 750-gallon tanks, six growing beds and 3 acres available for outdoor fuel research and gardens.
In aquaponics, plants and fish are cultivated in a recirculated environment. Plants are fertilized with water from the fish, then clean water is returned to the fish. University officials say the process creates a waste-free environment.
The school is to unveil the system Tuesday.
Chicago State physiology professor Floyd Banks says the program is a campus and community-wide initiative.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.
Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture — or fish farming — with hydroponics — or raising plants in water instead of soil.
The university's new facility has four 750-gallon tanks, six growing beds and 3 acres available for outdoor fuel research and gardens.
In aquaponics, plants and fish are cultivated in a recirculated environment. Plants are fertilized with water from the fish, then clean water is returned to the fish. University officials say the process creates a waste-free environment.
The school is to unveil the system Tuesday.
Chicago State physiology professor Floyd Banks says the program is a campus and community-wide initiative.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.
