Shaker's first go at a CHOP system

[Shaker]

Hi All

Gee I am enjoying the knowledge base of this site.

Ok, I am about to start a small system...still havent decided on location yet mind you.

Here are a couple of pics of gear I will be using for now.

Mark

[Shaker]

So as you can see i have the basic stuff i need.

Is the bio filter suitable? It is from a pond i used to have before we got a swimming pool. It has a UV light attached as well. On the right of the photo you can just make out the pump.

I would appreciate any comments.

I live in Ellenbrook Western Australia and i like what Gary is doing with The Queenslander. So with my wife's approval it may grow if it all goes well.

Mark

[ash33]

Hey Mark, I've looked at the UV filters my self but I wasn't sure if the UV would kill off benificial bacteria as well as the harmfull toxins?

[Shaker]

Hi Ash

I suppose most of the good bacteria will be in the growbeds and bio filter so wont pass through the UV setup. In my previous pond I had bream and barra with floating plants and used the UV light to help combat the algae issues.
I hope someone here knows for sure.

Found this in a search http://www.advantagebeadfilters.com/UV-Sterilizers-c-30.html

Thanks for your reply

Mark

[GaryD]

Hi Mark,

That looks like an old Oases filter you've got there. That will help you to extract the solids from your system.

I've heard conflicting reports on the effect of UV on aquaponics systems.

Crusty has said that a UV filter will assist you to keep algae under control and will not impact the nitrifying bacteria too much. If I recall correctly, they will lock up/destroy certain nutrients. I'll see if I can dig the information up for you.

Gary

[Shaker]

Hi Gary

Yeah it is an old Oasis type along with the pump. Bought from Watergarden World in Balcatta, Perth some time ago. I used to have a 6500l pond which i ran 2 pumps into plant filter beds...i wish i knew about aquaponics then.

Also Gary when will your online book be available?

Mark