The variety of aquaponic edible aquaponics fish is quite good, but depends largely on local laws, climate, species availability, the species needs, habitat, and ease of breeding if that is a goal, etc.
If you’re looking to grow fish you can consume, the best choices in edible aquaponic fish include those that are the most popular and the less popular. Each of these species has its pros and cons.
Edible fish
Aquaponics edible fish cover a wide variety of species. The key is to breed or grow fish that are pleasant to the taste or at least fairly neutral. The latter can be prepared in ways that encourage people who do not enjoy a “fishy” taste to eat them.
A question people new to backyard aquaponics or those who wish to practice commercial aquaponics is which species of aquaponic edible fish to stock. There are several factors that can influence this decision.
For home aquaponics systems the species chosen are the ones that the aquaponist will at least enjoy either watching, like koi or consuming. Should the choice be made to make a profit out of either via an aquaponics business, several other matters come into play.
Here are some thoughts…
Since we are now discussing edible commercial aquaponic fish, we must look to the species most easily acquired, legal to stock, fairly hardy, and adaptable. They must not be too fussy about their diet; they should be fast-growing and easily harvested. They must also be resistant to disease and parasites. Finally, and most importantly, they must be profitable! This is mostly determined by all the previous factors to this one.
A sizeable commercial production unit is necessary since fish grow far slower than plants, and also because several of the species are cannibalistic. This necessitates the acquisition of good quality feed and often the removal of fingerlings by placing them in separate holding tanks.
