A recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) is a fish farming method where water is reused after being filtered and cleaned. It allows for high-density fish farming with minimal water use. A home RAS works by circulating water through mechanical and biological filters to remove waste and maintain water quality. Tilapia, trout, and catfish are well-suited for home RAS due to their adaptability and resilience.
Maintaining water quality involves regular monitoring of pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels, and using biofilters and UV sterilizers to keep the water clean. Startup costs for a home RAS can vary widely, but a small system may start around $1,000, including tanks, filters, and pumps. Space requirements depend on the scale, but a modest system can fit in a garage or basement.
A home RAS can also support aquaponics, combining fish farming with hydroponic plant growth, providing mutual benefits.
Home RAS can be energy-intensive, but using energy-efficient pumps and lighting can help. The benefits include reduced water use, control over growing conditions, and the ability to produce fresh fish year-round, making it an appealing alternative to traditional aquaculture.
Basic filtering elements
Drum Filters: provide effective removal of mechanical impurities from water, maintaining its cleanliness and transparency. The automatic system requires no maintenance and is equipped with an overflow emergency system, ensuring the safety of your fish farm operations. The system operates from a timer and sensor switch simultaneously, providing maximum efficiency and ease of use.
Biofilters: create ideal conditions for biological balance in your fish farm. They contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and maintain an optimal level of bacteria, ensuring the health of your livestock.
UV filter: The primary purpose of a UV filter in a RAS is to provide a reliable method of water sterilization, ensuring that the recirculated water is free from harmful microorganisms. This is crucial in high-density aquaculture setups where the risk of disease can be significantly higher due to close proximity of the fish and the continuous reuse of water. By integrating a UV filter, fish farmers can create a more stable and healthy environment, leading to improved fish welfare and more efficient operation of the RAS.
The drawing shows an example of installing a Drum filter and a biofilter; you can add any other filters to this system at your discretion.
The most popular and common on fish farms is installation at one water level; in the tanks where the fish are located, the water level is the same as in the filtration systems. (The level may differ by several centimeters)
In tanks where fish are located, the water level is higher than in filtration systems.
The filter system is located higher than the water level than in fish tankers. Water rises to the filtration system using a pump(s)
The video shows RAS systems and Fish farms.
Using filters from (raufilter.com)
Home RAS Farm Showcasing Tilapia: A Smart Solution This video showcases a home RAS farm dedicated to raising tilapia. It’s an excellent option for those with limited resources. The farm features a 35m³/h (9000 GPH) drum filter and a biofilter, both of which are highlighted in the video.
Fish Farm Showcase: Dedicated Room for Raising Various Fish Species This video takes you inside a fish farm, revealing a dedicated room for raising trout, white fish, sturgeon, and carp fry. You’ll see the impressive setup, where a single 25m³/h (5500 GPH) drum filter (raufilter) works alongside several biofilters to maintain pristine water conditions. This efficient filtration system ensures a healthy environment for the young fish, promoting their growth and well-being.
Inside a Small RAS Fish Farm: Efficient Filtration in Action This video offers a glimpse into a small RAS fish farm, showcasing its effective setup for raising fish. The farm employs a robust 10m³/h (2600gph) drum filter and an efficient biofilter, both of which are highlighted in the video. This filtration system ensures optimal water quality, creating a healthy environment for the fish to thrive. Watch the video to see how these advanced filters work together to maintain the farm’s pristine conditions.
