Abstract:
This study developed and implemented an IoT-based automated aquaponics
system designed to optimize water quality management and reduce manual
intervention. The aquaponics system utilized a NFT grow bed, with a 1:2 ratio
between the fish tank and grow bed size. 500 L fish tank was selected to
accommodate 25 fishes, and a 1 m2 grow bed area was used for 48 plants. To
ensure a sustainable nutrient cycle, a filter was installed to convert fish waste
ammonia into nitrate, which serves as a vital nutrient for plant growth. Water was
circulated using a pump with a head height of 2.7 m, and actuators were employed
to regulate critical parameters such as pH, temperature, EC, and DO.
IoT technology was integrated into the system to monitor water quality
parameters. IoT sensors continuously monitored the critical water parameters
which are essential for the health of fish and plants. A PIC microcontroller
facilitated automated data acquisition, transmitting real-time data via a GSM
module to the ThingSpeak cloud platform. Based on predefined thresholds,
automatic adjustments were made through solenoid valves, aerators, and pH
regulators to maintain optimal conditions. Alerts were also sent to the user's
smartphone when abnormal values were detected.
Over a three month period, the system effectively maintained water quality
within the optimal ranges (DO >5.5 mg L-1, pH 6.5-7.5, temperature 22-32°C and
EC <2 dS cm-1), ensuring a stable environment for both fish and plant growth.
Despite fluctuations in water quality due to fish respiration and excretion, the
automated system consistently managed to prevent fish mortality and ensured
efficient nutrient absorption by plants.
The aquaponics system achieved a total fish yield of 5.198 kg and a plant
yield of 9.57 kg, demonstrating the effectiveness of the automated system. Hence,
it is concluded that, the IoT based real time monitoring and control significantly
improved water efficiency, reduced human error, and enhanced the alignment of
fish and plant growth. This scalable and sustainable aquaponics system offers a
promising solution for integrated farming practices, contributing to future food
security and resource-efficient agriculture.
