UCI Aquaponics is a student-led project which features the symbiotic cultivation of plants and aquatic animals in a balanced recirculating environment. Our primary goal is to demonstrate that aquaponics is an economically feasible and environmentally sustainable method for the local generation of food in Irvine, CA.
Accordingly, our research goals are to define the parameters which optimize aquaponic system efficiency, sustainability, and economy in a university context. With aquaponics, campus food waste promises to be diverted into fish food, which in turn fertilizes the growth of edible vegetables. This closed loop method simultaneously conserves significant water resources while much of California struggles in extreme drought. Finally, UC Irvine Aquaponics is poised to provide structured, experiential learning for UCI students, as well as local elementary, middle, and high school students.