ARUGA aquaponics system: Design, construct, and test of automated media bed aquaponics system for ARUGA small-scale aquaculture production

Abstract

This study presents the design, construction, and performance evaluation of an automated media bed aquaponics system designed for ARUGA, a small-scale aquaculture production program in Iloilo, Philippines. ARUGA, an association of organic farmers initiated by Central Philippine University alumni, is a formidable challenge in food production, specifically in optimizing the utilization of limited resources and increasing farm space. To solve these problems, the researchers created an innovative aquaponics system that merges aquaculture and hydroponics through sensors and microcontrollers. The system continuously monitors and manages the major water quality factors of pH, temperature, ammonia, and water level to provide the best conditions for the symbiotic pechay (<i>Brassica rapa</i>) and Nile tilapia (<i>Oreochromis niloticus</i>) growth. The performance testing analyzed the accuracy, functionality, and growth performance of the system, as well as the reliability if deployed on a small scale. The findings indicated the potential of the system to improve food production, sustainability, and technical innovation in environments with few resources, and thus the system is an applicable model for aquaculture in community and urban environments.