Aquaponia: integrando peixes e hortaliças

Abstract

This study analyzed the integration of fish and vegetables with the aim of designing a more sustainable and economical production system. In this cultivation method, the main challenge is to maintain the balance between plants, fish and microorganisms, which depend, directly or indirectly, on water quality. This is a closed production system with water recirculation, allowing savings of up to 80% compared to other cultivation methods. The project was developed at the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR), Pato Branco campus, with the aim of establishing a balanced system, keeping all parameters within standards, in order to evaluate the efficiency of the filtration system installed specifically for the study. This type of system does not have a defined installation standard or cultivation styles, and can vary significantly between projects, resulting in different levels of efficiency. The results obtained are of great relevance both for the producing community and for society in general. The data obtained demonstrated positive results, evidencing the viability of producing lettuce together with fish, both on a small and medium scale, with potential application in commercial systems. Aquaponics has proven to be a viable alternative for regions with water scarcity, allowing the production of food and bioinputs, such as fish manure, which can be used as fertilizer in other crops. The installation of the system can vary from low to high cost, enabling the use of recycled materials for small-scale production and in reduced spaces, which makes its implementation viable in both urban and rural areas.