Aquaponics is a constructed ecosystem combining aquaculture and nitrifying bacteria to provide nutrient rich water to grow plants directly in water (hydroponics). Algae can lead to mechanical issues by clogging tubing and pumps, as well as competing for nutrients with plants. The objective of the experiment was to use interspecies competition and the reduction of light to reduce algae biofouling. Duckweed (Lemna minor) was added to an existing aquaponics system in an area exposed to sunlight to induce interspecies competition with the algae. The experimental set up consisted of multiple replicates of 360 cm2 floating micro-ponds of landscaping fabric, foam pool noodles, and ~75% cover of Lemna minor. Treatment #1: fabric and Lemna minor. Treatment #2: fabric only, and Control: neither. The expected results include whether this method reduces algae growth, due to decreased light exposure and/or competition for resources with Lemna minor. The experiment will be conducted March-April 2025.
