iAVs (Integrated Aqua-Vegeculture System) is a sustainable food production method that combines raising fish (aquaculture) and growing vegetables (horticulture) in a closed-loop system. Fish waste provides nutrients for the plants, and the plants filter and clean the water for the fish. It mimics natural wetland processes. The key is using sand as a biofilter and growing medium.
The system works by cycling water from the fish tank through sand-filled grow beds where plants are rooted. Beneficial microbes in the sand break down fish waste into plant-available nutrients. The plants absorb these nutrients, effectively cleaning the water, which then flows back to the fish tank. This symbiotic relationship minimizes water usage and waste, making iAVs a highly efficient and environmentally friendly method of food production.
iAVs is often mistakenly referred to as “Sandponics” due to social media trends and a lack of thorough literature reviews but they are not the same.
