Aquaponics Digest - Tue 10/16/01



Message   1: Fish food/fruit
             from "STEVE SPRING" 

Message   2: Re: Pacu and  blow hard problem
             from "STEVE SPRING" 

Message   3: Rain gutters as growing troughs
             from "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Message   4: Re: Niche markets
             from "Gene Batten" 

Message   5: Re: Niche markets
             from "Gene Batten" 

Message   6: Re: manureing the system
             from "Gene Batten" 

Message   7: Re: Rain gutters as growing troughs
             from Arlus Farnsworth 

Message   8: Kudos to Don Bailey - Nice Website
             from "Charlie Shultz" 

Message   9: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
             from "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Message  10: RE: Niche markets
             from "Mark Allen Wells" 

Message  11: Hydrolist
             from "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Message  12: RE: duckweed
             from "Mark Allen Wells" 

Message  13: RE: comments & questions from a newbie lurker
             from "Mark Allen Wells" 

Message  14: RE: comments & questions from a newbie lurker
             from "Mark Allen Wells" 

Message  15: Re: Bed Media - Lava Rock
             from Arlus Farnsworth 

Message  16: Re: Bed Media - Lava Rock
             from "NiCKEL" 

Message  17: pfiesteria
             from "Robert Rogers" 

Message  18: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
             from Mick 

Message  19: Re: Niche markets
             from Mick 

Message  20: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
             from "gerry magnuson" 

Message  21: Hybrid Bream source
             from Arlus Farnsworth 

Message  22: Re: using human waste fertilizer
             from Carolyn Hoagland 

Message  23: Re: using human waste fertilizer
             from "gerry magnuson" 

Message  24: Re: using human waste fertilizer
             from Arlus Farnsworth 

Message  25: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
             from "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Message  26: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
             from "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Message  27: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
             from "Robert Rogers" 

Message  28: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
             from "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Message  29: Re: Rain gutters as growing troughs
             from conrad wilkins 

Message  30: Re: manureing the system
             from conrad wilkins 

Message  31: Re: using human waste fertilizer
             from conrad wilkins 

Message  32: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
             from "Robert Rogers" 

Message  33: Re: VEGGIE AND PRODUCE FEED
             from Birdnest5@aol.com

Message  34: Re: manureing the system
             from "Gene Batten" 

Message  35: Re: duckweed
             from Mike Davey 

Message  36: Re: UP perch
             from Mike Davey 

Message  37: RE: using human waste fertilizer
             from "Mark Lum" <>


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| Message 1                                                           |
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Subject: Fish food/fruit
From:    "STEVE SPRING" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 00:09:58 -0500

Hi Gang,

Just going to be down here a moment, (I hate working pm shifts. I don't get
anything done.) but I want to throw this out to the list.

I'm growing the Pacu (of course) and I'm trying to wean them to eating fruit
vs. flakes. So far, so good...they love it.

Tonight, I hit upon a brainstorm. Tilapia are omnivores. Would they eat
fruit, lettuce, etc. w/o ill effects. The reason that I ask this is that I
still have about a hundred or so left in my tanks. I'm going to continue to
let these guys grow out during the winter. Real reason. I have a source for
all of the fresh fruit and produce that one can imagine & totally free. As
most of you know, I'm a respiratory therapist. There are, literally,
thousands of pounds of perfectly good food that is thrown out by the
hospital. They said that I could have all that I wanted. I love FREE. I do
FREE very well.

Appreciate any feedback.

YT............Steve





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| Message 2                                                           |
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Subject: Re: Pacu and  blow hard problem
From:    "STEVE SPRING" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 00:24:55 -0500

Hi Pablo,

I don't know what Steve you are referring to. Apparently there are several
"Steves" on the list now.

If you are referring to me and the Pacu, I asked Bruce the same question. He
told me that it would be impossible with the setup that I have. The Pacu at
3 - 4 #'s is still a baby. I'm still learning.

But, amazing though. I had the same thought tonight. I bought some babies
(1") for $1.50 ea. and I'm now buying some 3" babies for $3.00 ea. Hey,
these guys grow like grass. INTERESTING!

Later......Steve

----- Original Message -----
From: "pablo obiaga" 

Sent: Monday, October 15, 2001 9:03 AM
Subject: Re: Pacu and blow hard problem


STEVE:

You should think on breeding them at those prices. There was info on the
list about hormones use to induce reproduction thou that may mean taking
the reproductors out of the acuaponic system. One of the guys that raises
them here told me they can be sexed (don't know at what size) by their
"chest". It appears that male have their chest slitely more like a ship
keel, compared to female that are a little bit rounder. When female "lay"
eggs, these, fall on the mudd or bottom sand. Males perform 3 acts at that
mommet: they fertilize them and burry them making a trail on the sand using
the keel shaped chest and then brooming with their tail to cover. Perhaps
some of the difficulties of reproducing them in captivity may be emullating
the bottom natural substrate.

If so, the substrate should be loose enough to allow that. Also small and
round (it wont harm them and won't weigh much) 1millimeter sand. As to
mudd, in summer with still waters usually can turn to a soft to foot touch
lime over the sand.

Pablo



At 00:59 15/10/01 -0500, you wrote:
>Already thought about this.
>
>I ABSOLUTELY, DEARLY LOVE coming home & feeding these guys. It is such a
>treat. I am so addicted to them that it is unreal. With all of the problems
>that I had with the Tilapia, the Pacu are so "trouble free"...all they want
>to do is eat.  They are such voracious eaters and their little "red
bellies"
>just shine.
>
>I'm supposed to get another 50 in a week or so. These are supposed to be
>about 3" in length. They are amost $3/fingerling...BUT, I'M THE ONLY ONE
>GROWING THE PACU.
>
>Luv it...Go Pacu, PACKERS and Kang Kong!!!
>
>Later......Steve
>
>----- Original Message -----
>From: "pablo obiaga" 
>
>Sent: Sunday, October 14, 2001 2:50 PM
>Subject: Re: Pacu and blow hard problem
>
>
>STEVE:
>
>.........................
>you wrote:
>(No,  I haven't completely
>>lost my mind. The Pacu are vegetarians and I'm trying to switch their diet
>>to fruit instead of commercial flakes.)
>......................
>
>Not at all. They are fruit eaters in their natural environment. Its good
>you feed them anithing you don't have to buy. In the northern part of the
>country, in summer, I've been told they can be seen voraciouslly eating
>almost anythig that falls from the docks or the ships, especially grain
>cargos. They would eat wheat, maize, soy beans etc. If you have fruit trees
>or leftovers you save some bucks. Remember they eat fruit that falls from
>trees so they eat fruit that has time passed for human. Perhaps you can get
>some from town vegetable markets, and producers' markets. They usually have
>lots of waists.
>
>On time I'll get to them. I bett in 1 or 2 years I'll be selling them as
>delicatessen.
>I guess nowledge and money decides. I'll be getting the Bagres I commented
>for 18 dollars/ thousand. I can't refuse to start with such a price. Its
>cheaper to do my learning killing with these. I'll only have food, nitrogen
>and oxygen to worry about.
>
>Feed us with your progress and get a cat for such accidents man. Kitten
>will love you. :)
>I'll get one my self. Just in case.
>Be well,
>Pablo
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>At 00:16 14/10/01 -0500, you wrote:
>>Pablo,
>>
>>I might add that I have dropped the temp to 60F frequently during major
>>water changes and all did fine. (But, I was right there to make sure that
>my
>>in-tank heater was performing properly. This low temp was only for a few
>>minutes until the heater started raising the temp.) This particular time,
>it
>>was a major fiasco, the water temp was 60F for a couple of days not to
>>mention NO CIRCULATION, THEREFORE NO AERATION..(Electrical problem.) The
>>Pacu, most of them, did fine. I lost about the same number of Pacu that I
>>did Tilapia.
>>
>>So far, I just love the Pacu which is more than I can say for the Tilapia.
>>I just love watching these little buggars eat. You can surely tell that
>they
>>are members of the Pirannah (sp)  family. They just swarm the food. Looks
>>like something on the Discovery Channel. I always look forward to feeding
>>them. I even have a blender set up in the "farm" so I can make apple food
>>for them in addition to their usual flake diet. (No,  I haven't completely
>>lost my mind. The Pacu are vegetarians and I'm trying to switch their diet
>>to fruit instead of commercial flakes.)
>>
>>Just thought I would throw this in.
>>
>>Later.......Steve
>>
>>----- Original Message -----
>>From: "Bruce Schreiber" 
>>
>>Sent: Saturday, October 13, 2001 3:01 PM
>>Subject: Re: Pacu and blow hard problem
>>
>>
>>Pablo I talked to Steve yesterday and he told me the water temp dropped
>>to
>>  60 degrees Fahrenheit
>>and the pacu did fine
>>           Bruce
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>




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| Message 3                                                           |
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Subject: Rain gutters as growing troughs
From:    "gutierrez-lagatta" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 04:03:14 -0500



> Would rain gutters work?
Technically, yes, rain gutters do work as hydro troughs.  As do the
vinyl fence post sleeves that you can get at Home Depot or Lowes
Hardware.  BUT....there has recently been extensive discussion on the
hydro list on the toxicity of certain plastics to plants.  The
conclusion/recommendation is that it is OK to risk using non-food
grade materials for hobby systems but not for commercial operations.

Adriana



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| Message 4                                                           |
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Subject: Re: Niche markets
From:    "Gene Batten" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 06:03:10 -0400

Mick,

Thanks for this info. This is exactly the type of detailed information that
is helpful for someone like myself looking for a startup business. Now, I
need to do some research.

Almost $60 for one fish sounds like a generous price to me. But these are
not sold by the dozens. So, depending upon the market demand, the economics
of this little business may or may not be as great as it first appears.
However, it could be a great way to learn about raising fish, on a small
scale, and earn a little money in the process.

I may ask a few more questions after I "dig" a little.

.....Gene

> Gene,
>
> Cynotilapia Frontosa  is the name of the fish I was talking about.  It
> is an African Cichlid and is probably a cousin of the fish we raise for
> food.  The price I remembered was way off.  They want $59.95 for the
> adult male they have in store.  The store owner tells me they are mouth
> breeders which makes it easier to raise them.
> -----snip-------
> It might be a fun project and you could attach a small plant tray in
> which you could grow herbs and have indoor aquaponics!
>
> Mick



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| Message 5                                                           |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Niche markets
From:    "Gene Batten" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 06:05:22 -0400

Mick,

Great! I put it in my "favorites list".   Thanks.
...Gene


> Gene,
> 
> http://members.aol.com/Cichlidfan/ff0498.html
> 
> Just found this website.  They do have similiar breeding habits to the
> tilapia I am raising but they require more time to reach sexual
> maturity.  
> 
> Mick



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| Message 6                                                           |
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Subject: Re: manureing the system
From:    "Gene Batten" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 07:08:52 -0400

Conrad,

Hold on there. You are spreading an exaggeration. I live in North Carolina,
about 2-3 hours drive from the coast. We had some small outbreaks of
Pfisteria (also called "Red Tide") a couple of years ago, but nothing like
you are implying below. There are many hog farms in eastern NC and it is
possible that some hog lagoon waste spilled into a stream and contributed to
an outbreak. But nothing as large as you report below occurred. That would
have been "all over the news", and it just did not happen. I am less sure
about what happened in states farther south from NC, but I do not remember
hearing of any large outbreak. Pfisteria is a naturally occurring phenomena
which can be locally enhanced by excessive concentrations of certain
substances.

I frequently drive down to the coast to fish. I was there last week and will
probably go down this Saturday. The "Spots" are running right now, and if
you find a school, you can catch two at a time just a fast as you can throw
your hook into the water. They weight about 1 pound each and are tasty (I
like flounder better).

Can you tell us where you read the article that you quote? Is it from a
reliable source?

By the way, I heard from a friend of a friend's mother-in-law that there was
a bad outbreak of "mad grizzly disease" in the Canadian Rockies. Somewhere
in British Colombia I think. She was saying that these "mad grizzlies" were
coming into towns and attacking and eating pets, especially dogs. She said
that one man shot at a "mad grizzly", missed and hit the gas tank of his
neighbor's car which exploded, causing a fire that burned down half of the
town. Things must be getting pretty "wild" up there.

Well, gotta go for now.

...Gene

> The other thing on the same subject is to do with the south eastern
> states. I read an article recently. Well, briefed through it. It was
> about an out break of a pathogen in Florida. I believe it was called
> Pfisteria or something very similar. Aparently it started in the early
> to mid 80's. There was a release of pig efluent that was in a man made
> lake built to retain it. The whole lot was released into a river and
> over a road and into the atlantic ocean. The size of the release was the
> equivelant to two EXON VALDESE oil spills. Yeh Ok mother nature can take
> care of a little spill But WOA thats alotta poop. Apparently one of the
> first people to raise the alarm was a court judge who was out in a river
> fishing and was seeing thousands of fish dying in front of him. Looking
> as though they had eaten dinamite and there bellies exploded from the
> inside.
> He contacted some federal depts, someone finally checked into it. This
> pathogen is clasified a level 3 to give a relevance to that Aids is a 2
> and Ebola is a 4. Thats a little unnerving. The research scientist who
> was trying to get the info out to the public recieved threatening phone
> calls telling her to keep her mouth shut. Meanwhile people were comming
> down with all kinds of serious aillments.
>     This was an article just written and they were saying that it was in
> a number of the south eastern states as far up as North Carolina. Do any
> of you on the list know about this or can fill in whether it is under
> control. Not just by what the spin doctors say.
>  Hopefully its all a bit of bad journalism..
>
> Concerned   Conrad
> B.C. Canada.
>



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| Message 7                                                           |
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Subject: Re: Rain gutters as growing troughs
From:    Arlus Farnsworth 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 04:02:52 -0700

So vinyl is toxic then... Or some formulations of it? What is the
address for the hydro list? Using food grade liners might be cost
effective.

gutierrez-lagatta wrote:
> 
> > Would rain gutters work?
> Technically, yes, rain gutters do work as hydro troughs.  As do the
> vinyl fence post sleeves that you can get at Home Depot or Lowes
> Hardware.  BUT....there has recently been extensive discussion on the
> hydro list on the toxicity of certain plastics to plants.  The
> conclusion/recommendation is that it is OK to risk using non-food
> grade materials for hobby systems but not for commercial operations.
> 
> Adriana


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| Message 8                                                           |
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Subject: Kudos to Don Bailey - Nice Website
From:    "Charlie Shultz" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 12:55:32

Everyone should check out the new website Don Bailey built with information 
about our summer website.  Even if you don't plan to attend, the site is 
FULL of great aquaponic photos!  Thanks Don!  Hope to see a few of you next 
summer.

Charlie Shultz
UVI- St. Croix



<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Subject: UVI Aquaponics Short Course
From:    Donald Bailey 
Date:    Mon, 15 Oct 2001 12:26:45 -0400

The UVI Tilapia Aquaculture and Aquaponics Short Course is scheduled for
June 23-29, 2002.  The following link will take you to the site with
information on the class and a registration form.

http://rps.uvi.edu/AES/Aquaculture/UVIShortCourse.html

Be sure to follow the "Topics" link to 20 pages of course information.



 



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| Message 9                                                           |
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Subject: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
From:    "gutierrez-lagatta" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 07:54:58 -0500

I am reposting Rob Smith's excellent submission to the hyrolist on
toxic plastics.

Adriana

From: "Rob Smith" 
To: "hydrolist" 
Subject: Re: Hydrolist Digest #419
Date: Thursday, September 27, 2001 4:13 PM

Hydroponics Mailing List provided by the Hydroponic Society of America
                    http://hsa.hydroponics.org
----------------------------------------------------------------------
-

In order to clear up any misunderstandings caused by those voicing
opinions
rather than fact I reprint below the excellent scientific paper:

    Published in the New Scientist 30th January 1986

Plastics that kill plants
Plants grown in plastic shelters often sicken and die. Despite a
wealth of
evidence, some manufactures still produce horticultural equipment made
of
the killer plastic
By Richard Hardwick and Rosemary Cole

AT the Rockefeller Institute in 1949, Karl Maramorosch was studying
certain
viruses that are transmitted to plants by insects. To keep the insects
from
escaping, he grew each plant in its own transparent "plastic" cage,
made of
cellulose acetate. The plants grew badly. Their leaves developed
spots:
within two weeks most were dead, An American entomologist, F. W. Poos,
had
encountered similar problems with plant ages made of cellulose
acetate. He
changed to another plastic and never published his work. Maramorosch,
however, persisted. Eventually he identified the cause of the damage,
and in
1952 he published a paper in Science showing that vapours of a
compound,
di-ethyl phthalate
>



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| Message 10                                                          |
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Subject: RE: Niche markets
From:    "Mark Allen Wells" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 08:02:54 -0500

Cynotilapia Frontosa  is the name of the fish I was talking about.  It
is an African Cichlid 

---

Hi Mick,

I smiled when I read your post.  South American, and especially some of
the beautiful African cichlids are what got me started in the aquarium 
hobby many years ago.  Keep us posted on how they do.  I am especially
curious as to how they will do at lower PH ranges.  Lake Malawi and
Tanganika where these fish originated is pretty alkaline from what I read.
I used to add some sea salt to their water and they did great.

best wishes,
mark


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| Message 11                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Hydrolist
From:    "gutierrez-lagatta" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 08:01:49 -0500



>What is the
> address for the hydro list? Using food grade liners might be cost
> effective.

The best hydrolist out there, in my opinion, is the HSA (Hydroponic
Society of America) list.  It is nowhere near as active as this one
but there are some extraordinary resources on it, especialy some
highly experienced commercial growers and equipment developers from
New Zealand.

Hydroponics Mailing List Instructions
TO SUBSCRIBE

Regular Version (you receive email each time a member posts a message)
Send email to hydrolist-on@hydroponics.org

Digest Version (you receive one email a day with the entire day's
postings on it)
Send email to hydrolist-digest@hydroponics.org

To switch from the Regular Version to the Digest Version
Send email to hydrolist-digest@hydroponics.org and you will
automatically be





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| Message 12                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: RE: duckweed
From:    "Mark Allen Wells" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 08:23:43 -0500


Do any of you grow duckweed for fish (or animal) feed?
If so, please tell me about it....  

---
Donna,

I don't yet but plan to experiment with it next spring/summer
as a supplemental feed source for my rabbits.

http://www.mobot.org/jwcross/duckweed/

mark


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| Message 13                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: RE: comments & questions from a newbie lurker
From:    "Mark Allen Wells" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 08:30:49 -0500

So, where can I buy some of these sunfish/bluegill hybrids?

---

Hi Mark,

I also like the hybrid bluegill...they are easy for me to get.
Here in Indiana, the hatcheries make their rounds every month
to farm and fleet stores all over the state.  They come around
in a special truck and usually have minnows, channel cats, striped
bass ...as well as the hybrid bluegill.  Make some phone calls.
Also, check out www.aquanic.org ...you should be able to track 
sources in your area.  I try to avoid getting fish that have had 
to travel too far because of losses.

The best source of duckweed is ponds in your area where it is 
growing.  Aquatic plant suppliers should have it too though. For
general info check out  ..
http://www.mobot.org/jwcross/duckweed/

I would write more but have to run.....peace,
mark


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| Message 14                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: RE: comments & questions from a newbie lurker
From:    "Mark Allen Wells" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 08:36:46 -0500

So, where can I buy some of these sunfish/bluegill hybrids?
---

Mark,

after I posted I remembered a post Ron Brooks had sent a while 
back (thanks Ron)...this info may be of use.

hybrid bluegill
temp range of 55 - 80 F
tolerate cold well , in fact need a short cold spell to start the
reproduction cycle
do NOT tolerate D.O. levels below 3 ppm
PH range 6.5-8.5
NH3 levels below 0.1 ppm
harvest size starting at 6 inches in length
harvest weight 1 pound
surface feeders
Do not like rapid currents

-----

later,
mark


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| Message 15                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Bed Media - Lava Rock
From:    Arlus Farnsworth 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 06:40:03 -0700

You could have ph issues with some volcanic rocks. 

NiCKEL wrote:
> 
> Has anyone had luck using lava rock for bed media?
> 
> I am considering it as it is light and cheap.
> 
> I know people use it for ground cover in gardens so im sure the plants won't
> mind it. As long as it doesn't mess with water retention or the
> fish/bacteria I would assume all is well.
> 
>     Thanks
>     -Geoff


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| Message 16                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Bed Media - Lava Rock
From:    "NiCKEL" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 07:38:35 -0700

Most likely acidic or basic?

    Thanks
    -Geoff

----- Original Message -----
From: "Arlus Farnsworth" 

Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2001 6:40 AM
Subject: Re: Bed Media - Lava Rock


> You could have ph issues with some volcanic rocks.
>
> NiCKEL wrote:
> >
> > Has anyone had luck using lava rock for bed media?
> >
> > I am considering it as it is light and cheap.
> >
> > I know people use it for ground cover in gardens so im sure the plants
won't
> > mind it. As long as it doesn't mess with water retention or the
> > fish/bacteria I would assume all is well.
> >
> >     Thanks
> >     -Geoff



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| Message 17                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: pfiesteria
From:    "Robert Rogers" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 10:41:29 -0400

     I am not an alarmist in the least, but anyone working around fish
should inform themselves about any pathogens that can do them or thier
families harm.
   pfiesteria piscicda is a bad actor and comes into play in water that has
a lot of nutrients,like we might find in a closed system.
www.mdsg.umd.edu/pfiesteria/
www.pfiesteria.org/pfiesteria/pfiesteria.html
www.epa.gov/owow/estuaries/pfiesteria/fact.html#6





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| Message 18                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
From:    Mick 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 09:59:15 -0500

Adrianna,

That was an alarming article.  Since you are doing large scale
hydroponics, do you already have a source for your hardware that you
trust?  Hydro Gardens?  Are their supplies free of phthalates?

There's a lot of hard work in any type of gardening.  What a shame to
have it all sabotaged by a piece of plastic.

Mick


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| Message 19                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Niche markets
From:    Mick 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 10:19:43 -0500

> 
> Hi Mick,
> 
> I smiled when I read your post.  South American, and especially some of
> the beautiful African cichlids are what got me started in the aquarium
> hobby many years ago.  Keep us posted on how they do.  I am especially
> curious as to how they will do at lower PH ranges.  Lake Malawi and
> Tanganika where these fish originated is pretty alkaline from what I read.
> I used to add some sea salt to their water and they did great.
> 
> best wishes,
> mark
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hiya Mark!

I'm not raising the ornamental fish.  My breeding colonies have
mossambicus hybrids.  I posted some tips on how to raise a breeding
colony because the fish I raise for a food crop have similiar breeding
habits to these ornamental cichlids, according to that website.

Have a pleasant day,
Mick


.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 20                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
From:    "gerry magnuson" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 05:35:31 -1000


mick...don't put too much into research reports, as 'platics' have been 
drastically changes the past 20 years, moving water through 'plastics' or 
even aluminumwill not result in adverse results, standing water in plastic 
pipe with hot sun can cause bad results...as with plastic containers for 
plants, how long does one expect to maintain in a plastic container? be 
cautious, fine, but don't get extreme...as with volcanic rock, it is on the 
acidic side, a good planting medium with none or very little nutrients...ph 
can be 4.8-5.2/...cowboy





>From: Mick 
>Reply-To: aquaponics@townsqr.com
>To: aquaponics@townsqr.com
>Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
>Date: Tue, 16 Oct 2001 09:59:15 -0500
>
>Adrianna,
>
>That was an alarming article.  Since you are doing large scale
>hydroponics, do you already have a source for your hardware that you
>trust?  Hydro Gardens?  Are their supplies free of phthalates?
>
>There's a lot of hard work in any type of gardening.  What a shame to
>have it all sabotaged by a piece of plastic.
>
>Mick


 



.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 21                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Hybrid Bream source
From:    Arlus Farnsworth 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 09:14:22 -0700

Hybrid Bream source:
http://www.kens-fishfarm.com/fish.asp

another interesting link:
http://www.tcru.ttu.edu/tcru/kc/pubs/

another pfiesteria link:
http://www.unc.edu/depts/cmse/science/pfiesteria.html

Mark Allen Wells wrote:
> 
> So, where can I buy some of these sunfish/bluegill hybrids?
> ---
>


.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 22                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: using human waste fertilizer
From:    Carolyn Hoagland 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 13:18:28 -0500

I think the original question was about the nutrient value of human
*urine*.  Then I saw a whole lot of people start messaging about how
dangerous the cooties are in *humanure*.  But that didn't answer the
question!  My understanding is that fresh urine from a healthy person
is not a hazard to anyone.  I have read first aid manuals where it
suggested as an emergency "wound wash" if you are cut and there is no
potable water available.

So let's stick to the urine question.  Could it safely be used to
fertilize a duckweed pond?

Carolyn


.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 23                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: using human waste fertilizer
From:    "gerry magnuson" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 08:25:44 -1000


first question would be why? if there is urine, there is another source for 
water...the result would be what the giver has eaten and drunk to afford 
this process...if one is that desparate to use such, the task of providing 
feed/foods would be secondary...one would need keto(sp) sticks to test 
nutrient value or disease...think you should file this in 'T' file...





>From: Carolyn Hoagland 
>Reply-To: aquaponics@townsqr.com
>To: aquaponics@townsqr.com
>Subject: Re: using human waste fertilizer
>Date: Tue, 16 Oct 2001 13:18:28 -0500
>
>I think the original question was about the nutrient value of human
>*urine*.  Then I saw a whole lot of people start messaging about how
>dangerous the cooties are in *humanure*.  But that didn't answer the
>question!  My understanding is that fresh urine from a healthy person
>is not a hazard to anyone.  I have read first aid manuals where it
>suggested as an emergency "wound wash" if you are cut and there is no
>potable water available.
>
>So let's stick to the urine question.  Could it safely be used to
>fertilize a duckweed pond?
>
>Carolyn


 



.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 24                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: using human waste fertilizer
From:    Arlus Farnsworth 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 12:24:47 -0700

No, you would be breaking the law.

Carolyn Hoagland wrote:
> 
> I think the original question was about the nutrient value of human
> *urine*.  Then I saw a whole lot of people start messaging about how
> dangerous the cooties are in *humanure*.  But that didn't answer the
> question!  My understanding is that fresh urine from a healthy person
> is not a hazard to anyone.  I have read first aid manuals where it
> suggested as an emergency "wound wash" if you are cut and there is no
> potable water available.
> 
> So let's stick to the urine question.  Could it safely be used to
> fertilize a duckweed pond?
> 
> Carolyn


.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 25                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
From:    "gutierrez-lagatta" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 14:33:18 -0500

Hi Mick,

It certainly is sobering to find that something as invisible as a
sealant you use could sabotage your plants.  My growing trays are
baked aluminum  which I had made in Florida - you can buy them at a
premium from Aquatic Ecosystems.  If you are in one of the Southern
Gulf coast areas you may be able to have them fabricated locally.
They are made out of roof pans, which are what is used for carport
roofs in trailer parks.  If you decide to go this route I would
suggest that you buy the Aquatic Eco System 4-bed unit (4' x 20') to
see how it is constructed.  You can see it at
http://www.aquaticeco.com/aquatic1v1/itempg.icl?orderidentifier=ID1003
260624517367707&eflag=0&iteminfo4=0&itmid=2858&passitemid=2858&srcid=H
T3&srcdoc=/search.icl%3Fsearchstring%3Dgrowing%2Btrays%26searchArea%3D
1%26exactSearch%3D0%26orderidentifier%3DID1003260624517367707%26itemNa
me%3D1%26itemSku%3D1%26keyWord%3D1%26reSort%3D1%26firstRow%3D1&sourced
oc=&srcquantity=1
Then you will have a model to give to your local aluminum guy.  There
are some details which they WILL screw up unless they are shown
exactly how it should be done.  You can also buy a single tray 6' x
1', but the 4-tray system is better as it comes complete with
emitters,drains, etc.

I know that Aquatic Ecosystems sells silicon sealant which is safe for
fish, so I assume that they are pthalate-free.  I haven't gotten any
large system components from Hydrogardens but they are a reputable
supplier and I don't think you can go wrong there, except maybe in the
pocket book.
> That was an alarming article.  Since you are doing large scale
> hydroponics, do you already have a source for your hardware that you
> trust?  Hydro Gardens?  Are their supplies free of phthalates?

Adriana




.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 26                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture - long post
From:    "gutierrez-lagatta" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 14:36:29 -0500

Gerry,
A lot of growers use plastic for troughs and growing beds.  Add a
recirculating system and you have the potential for some long term
exposure and leaching of unwanted chemicals into the nutrient.
> pipe with hot sun can cause bad results...as with plastic containers
for
> plants, how long does one expect to maintain in a plastic container?
be
> cautious, fine, but don't get extreme...

Adriana



.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 27                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
From:    "Robert Rogers" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 16:13:03 -0400

My growing trays are
> baked aluminum  which I had made in Florida - you can buy them at a
> premium from Aquatic Ecosystems.  If you are in one of the Southern
> Gulf coast areas you may be able to have them fabricated locally.


This site shows how to make growing trays using roof pans.
www.hydrofarm.com/content/articles/hydroart7.html





.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 28                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
From:    "gutierrez-lagatta" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 18:09:18 -0500

Robert,
That article is by Gordon Creaser who helped me set up my system.  The
article shows you how to set up a system, not how to make the growing
trays themselves...there are tricks to putting on the endcaps so that
the trays interlock correctly, otherwise you cannot get them level.
Proper sealing of the seams and the right fittings for the drain are
also important.  If you were going to invest several thousand dollars
in equipment I would recommend investing in at least one
preofessionally made prototype.  Remember, the aluminum guys who will
be doing this work locally know nothing about hydroponics.  The trays
sold by Aquatic Eco Systems were manufactured to Gordon's
specifications, as he used to be a consultant with them.

Adriana

> This site shows how to make growing trays using roof pans.
> www.hydrofarm.com/content/articles/hydroart7.html




.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 29                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Rain gutters as growing troughs
From:    conrad wilkins 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 16:17:37 -0500

    A note that Id like to offer here is that PVC is Poly Vinyl Chloride.
as it breakes down, as all things do, this product gives off chemicals that
have been linked to birth defects and illnesses. One of them is a synthetic
hormone likened to estrogen. This plastic has been banned in toys for kids
in Europe. I believe it is also banned in food storage or preperation
especialy heated aplications like microwaveable containers. The chemical
bonds change with temperatur increase.The chemical can lead to infertility
in males and other inbalances in the hormonal system.
    It may be worth checking out the PVC piping that you use to suply the
water to the system. Manufacturers specs for end use. I dont know if its
possible to check simply for these sorts of chemicals in the system. Some
searching on the net may bring much info on the best materials to use.
    This is a concern I have about trying to use hormonal treatments for
changing the sex of fish fry. Are we going to find out in a few years time
that the chemical builds up in the system and causes the hormone production
system of our own bodies to get screwed up. Combinations of different
synthetic chemicals will create and do create chemicals that actually
reprogram the DNA matrix. Check out the frogs that grow extra sets of legs
or eyeballs in there stomachs. Amphibians are usually the first indicators
of impending major problems. These things are in our environments now what
new things are comming. Lets not add more to the Pandoras box, even if Hope
still lurks in the corner.

Conrad.



Arlus Farnsworth wrote:

> So vinyl is toxic then... Or some formulations of it? What is the
> address for the hydro list? Using food grade liners might be cost
> effective.
>
> gutierrez-lagatta wrote:
> >
> > > Would rain gutters work?
> > Technically, yes, rain gutters do work as hydro troughs.  As do the
> > vinyl fence post sleeves that you can get at Home Depot or Lowes
> > Hardware.  BUT....there has recently been extensive discussion on the
> > hydro list on the toxicity of certain plastics to plants.  The
> > conclusion/recommendation is that it is OK to risk using non-food
> > grade materials for hobby systems but not for commercial operations.
> >
> > Adriana



.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 30                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: manureing the system
From:    conrad wilkins 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 16:35:35 -0500

You heared about what happened here then!! Yup them bears do actually come into
towns and do eat the ocational dog if they can get em. Some of those howlers are
a little quieter now. In some parts of the outskirts of town theyll move on into
the house if its open or not.....But!
         I certainly didnt mean to sound hysterical or alarm everyone, thats why
I was asking if anyone could give feedback on this report. And thats why I said
it could be a case of bad journalism. If I didnt give you an idea of whats being
reported you wouldnt know what the hell I was talking about. As for the source
Ill go back to the store and see if I can locate it again. No it wasnt the
Enquirer or the National post.
    I certainly dont want to spread an exaggeration I just would like to get
some information from those nearer the source. Media coverage is so often
tainted by sensationalism, as probably per this case.

    Please keep breathing the sky is not falling  ; )

Conrad


Gene Batten wrote:

> Conrad,
>
> Hold on there. You are spreading an exaggeration. I live in North Carolina,
> about 2-3 hours drive from the coast. We had some small outbreaks of
> Pfisteria (also called "Red Tide") a couple of years ago, but nothing like
> you are implying below. There are many hog farms in eastern NC and it is
> possible that some hog lagoon waste spilled into a stream and contributed to
> an outbreak. But nothing as large as you report below occurred. That would
> have been "all over the news", and it just did not happen. I am less sure
> about what happened in states farther south from NC, but I do not remember
> hearing of any large outbreak. Pfisteria is a naturally occurring phenomena
> which can be locally enhanced by excessive concentrations of certain
> substances.
>
> I frequently drive down to the coast to fish. I was there last week and will
> probably go down this Saturday. The "Spots" are running right now, and if
> you find a school, you can catch two at a time just a fast as you can throw
> your hook into the water. They weight about 1 pound each and are tasty (I
> like flounder better).
>
> Can you tell us where you read the article that you quote? Is it from a
> reliable source?
>
> By the way, I heard from a friend of a friend's mother-in-law that there was
> a bad outbreak of "mad grizzly disease" in the Canadian Rockies. Somewhere
> in British Colombia I think. She was saying that these "mad grizzlies" were
> coming into towns and attacking and eating pets, especially dogs. She said
> that one man shot at a "mad grizzly", missed and hit the gas tank of his
> neighbor's car which exploded, causing a fire that burned down half of the
> town. Things must be getting pretty "wild" up there.
>
> Well, gotta go for now.
>
> ...Gene
>
> > The other thing on the same subject is to do with the south eastern
> > states. I read an article recently. Well, briefed through it. It was
> > about an out break of a pathogen in Florida. I believe it was called
> > Pfisteria or something very similar. Aparently it started in the early
> > to mid 80's. There was a release of pig efluent that was in a man made
> > lake built to retain it. The whole lot was released into a river and
> > over a road and into the atlantic ocean. The size of the release was the
> > equivelant to two EXON VALDESE oil spills. Yeh Ok mother nature can take
> > care of a little spill But WOA thats alotta poop. Apparently one of the
> > first people to raise the alarm was a court judge who was out in a river
> > fishing and was seeing thousands of fish dying in front of him. Looking
> > as though they had eaten dinamite and there bellies exploded from the
> > inside.
> > He contacted some federal depts, someone finally checked into it. This
> > pathogen is clasified a level 3 to give a relevance to that Aids is a 2
> > and Ebola is a 4. Thats a little unnerving. The research scientist who
> > was trying to get the info out to the public recieved threatening phone
> > calls telling her to keep her mouth shut. Meanwhile people were comming
> > down with all kinds of serious aillments.
> >     This was an article just written and they were saying that it was in
> > a number of the south eastern states as far up as North Carolina. Do any
> > of you on the list know about this or can fill in whether it is under
> > control. Not just by what the spin doctors say.
> >  Hopefully its all a bit of bad journalism..
> >
> > Concerned   Conrad
> > B.C. Canada.
> >



.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 31                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: using human waste fertilizer
From:    conrad wilkins 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 17:17:58 -0500

Hi Carolyn
I feel you are right that it can be used as an incredible healer. But
from my understanding you would only use your own urine for yourself.
Urine therapy is quite an old system and very effective.
    The mention of colecting the urine didnt refer to any health fact of
the humans suplying the urine. Healthy or diseased who knows. Thats all
part of the problem
    To fertilize a duckweed pond with no fish in it and no plants that
are to be eaten by humans then yes Id use it. I may have missunderstood
the initial question but I felt the idea was to use it to inoculate an
aquaponics system. In that circumstance I wouldnt use it.

Conrad

Carolyn Hoagland wrote:

> I think the original question was about the nutrient value of human
> *urine*.  Then I saw a whole lot of people start messaging about how
> dangerous the cooties are in *humanure*.  But that didn't answer the
> question!  My understanding is that fresh urine from a healthy person
> is not a hazard to anyone.  I have read first aid manuals where it
> suggested as an emergency "wound wash" if you are cut and there is no
> potable water available.
>
> So let's stick to the urine question.  Could it safely be used to
> fertilize a duckweed pond?
>
> Carolyn



.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 32                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture
From:    "Robert Rogers" 
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 20:32:24 -0400


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "gutierrez-lagatta" 

Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2001 7:09 PM
Subject: Re: Toxic Plastics in Horticulture 


> Robert,
> That article is by Gordon Creaser who helped me set up my system.  The
> article shows you how to set up a system, not how to make the growing
> trays themselves...there are tricks to putting on the endcaps so that
> the trays interlock correctly, otherwise you cannot get them level.
> Proper sealing of the seams and the right fittings for the drain are
> also important


     Is that the Gordon Creaser that will be at the NC  course next month?




.------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------.
| Message 33                                                          |
'------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------'
Subject: Re: VEGGIE AND PRODUCE FEED
From:    Birdnest5@aol.com
Date:    Tue, 16 Oct 2001 20:34:44 EDT


--part1_129.61cd1f2.28fe2c24_boundary
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit

Gang,
I have several hundred pounds of fresh produce and veggies given to me almost 
weekly.  Is it possible that Tilapia will eat this with or instead of 
commercial feed?

Bob Bird

--part1_129.61cd1f2.28fe2c24_boundary
Content-Type: text/html; charset="US-ASCII"
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit

Gang,

I have several hundred pounds of fresh produce and veggies given to me almost weekly.  Is it possible that Tilapia will eat this with or instead of commercial feed?

Bob Bird
--part1_129.61cd1f2.28fe2c24_boundary-- .------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------. | Message 34 | '------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------' Subject: Re: manureing the system From: "Gene Batten" Date: Tue, 16 Oct 2001 22:08:03 -0400 Conrad, Thanks for reporting the news as you heard it. You are right, it is good for all of us to hear what is being said about us in other areas. This just shows us how reliable the news media is. Watch out for those grizzlys. ...Gene > You heared about what happened here then!! Yup them bears do actually come into > towns and do eat the ocational dog if they can get em. Some of those howlers are > a little quieter now. In some parts of the outskirts of town theyll move on into > the house if its open or not.....But! > I certainly didnt mean to sound hysterical or alarm everyone, thats why > I was asking if anyone could give feedback on this report. And thats why I said > it could be a case of bad journalism. If I didnt give you an idea of whats being > reported you wouldnt know what the hell I was talking about. As for the source > Ill go back to the store and see if I can locate it again. No it wasnt the > Enquirer or the National post. > I certainly dont want to spread an exaggeration I just would like to get > some information from those nearer the source. Media coverage is so often > tainted by sensationalism, as probably per this case. > > Please keep breathing the sky is not falling ; ) > > Conrad > > > Gene Batten wrote: > > > Conrad, > > > > Hold on there. You are spreading an exaggeration. I live in North Carolina, > > about 2-3 hours drive from the coast. We had some small outbreaks of > > Pfisteria (also called "Red Tide") a couple of years ago, but nothing like > > you are implying below. There are many hog farms in eastern NC and it is > > possible that some hog lagoon waste spilled into a stream and contributed to > > an outbreak. But nothing as large as you report below occurred. That would > > have been "all over the news", and it just did not happen. I am less sure > > about what happened in states farther south from NC, but I do not remember > > hearing of any large outbreak. Pfisteria is a naturally occurring phenomena > > which can be locally enhanced by excessive concentrations of certain > > substances. > > > > I frequently drive down to the coast to fish. I was there last week and will > > probably go down this Saturday. The "Spots" are running right now, and if > > you find a school, you can catch two at a time just a fast as you can throw > > your hook into the water. They weight about 1 pound each and are tasty (I > > like flounder better). > > > > Can you tell us where you read the article that you quote? Is it from a > > reliable source? > > > > By the way, I heard from a friend of a friend's mother-in-law that there was > > a bad outbreak of "mad grizzly disease" in the Canadian Rockies. Somewhere > > in British Colombia I think. She was saying that these "mad grizzlies" were > > coming into towns and attacking and eating pets, especially dogs. She said > > that one man shot at a "mad grizzly", missed and hit the gas tank of his > > neighbor's car which exploded, causing a fire that burned down half of the > > town. Things must be getting pretty "wild" up there. > > > > Well, gotta go for now. > > > > ...Gene > > > > > The other thing on the same subject is to do with the south eastern > > > states. I read an article recently. Well, briefed through it. It was > > > about an out break of a pathogen in Florida. I believe it was called > > > Pfisteria or something very similar. Aparently it started in the early > > > to mid 80's. There was a release of pig efluent that was in a man made > > > lake built to retain it. The whole lot was released into a river and > > > over a road and into the atlantic ocean. The size of the release was the > > > equivelant to two EXON VALDESE oil spills. Yeh Ok mother nature can take > > > care of a little spill But WOA thats alotta poop. Apparently one of the > > > first people to raise the alarm was a court judge who was out in a river > > > fishing and was seeing thousands of fish dying in front of him. Looking > > > as though they had eaten dinamite and there bellies exploded from the > > > inside. > > > He contacted some federal depts, someone finally checked into it. This > > > pathogen is clasified a level 3 to give a relevance to that Aids is a 2 > > > and Ebola is a 4. Thats a little unnerving. The research scientist who > > > was trying to get the info out to the public recieved threatening phone > > > calls telling her to keep her mouth shut. Meanwhile people were comming > > > down with all kinds of serious aillments. > > > This was an article just written and they were saying that it was in > > > a number of the south eastern states as far up as North Carolina. Do any > > > of you on the list know about this or can fill in whether it is under > > > control. Not just by what the spin doctors say. > > > Hopefully its all a bit of bad journalism.. > > > > > > Concerned Conrad > > > B.C. Canada. > > > > .------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------. | Message 35 | '------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------' Subject: Re: duckweed From: Mike Davey Date: Tue, 16 Oct 2001 21:22:02 -0500 We did last year with wait water from our system. We then fed it to the tilapia. Once they go into it the ate it well. We used it as a supplemental feeding. The duckweed seems to like an area out of the wind, with good sun but not too hot. It will double in volume in a few days if there conditions are right. One thing to keep in mind though is that it is mostly water by weight. It takes a lot of it to make a meal. Mike >Do any of you grow duckweed for fish (or animal) feed? >If so, please tell me about it.... .------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------. | Message 36 | '------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------' Subject: Re: UP perch From: Mike Davey Date: Tue, 16 Oct 2001 21:25:09 -0500 Jim, We are just setting up a system for yellow perch. We hope to have fish in there in the next week or so. Two 400 gal tanks and 30 sq. feet of beds. We are in Oshkosh WI. Keep in touch and I'll let you know how it goes. We've been doing tilapia for a number of years. Mike >********************************************** >Hi >I am brand new to the list and will be building a system this coming spring. >My system will be a 750 gal rd tank with three 4x8 growing beds in a solar >heated greenhouse. If anyone knows how to build or design and uses a screen >filter for removing solids I would appreciate any suggestions pro or con. I >want to raise Yellow Perch and if anyone has any experience with this >species >in an aquaponics system I would like to find out if you were successful or >not. >I live in the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan and have been raising >fish (Trout) for 32 years for the state of Michigan. 22 of those years as a >Fish Cultural Forman at a state fish hatchery in Marquette Mi. I will be >retiring in two years and would like to try and combine the two things I >enjoy most, raising fish and organic gardening. >Jim .------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------. | Message 37 | '------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------' Subject: RE: using human waste fertilizer From: "Mark Lum" <> Date: Tue, 16 Oct 2001 21:57:46 -0700 I had asked about the nutrient content of human urine, thinking of it as a nutrient source for plants. I had spawned someconfusion because I had so many questions on disparate topics all lumped together in my original post. Is for using human urine, I was thinking of predominantly third world nations, or other places where sewage treatment is lacking, as is available fertilizer (but, hey, everybody pees on a regular basis). Or in a domestic greywater/urinal effluent utilization system. I was imagining just a hydroponic/biofilter, with no fish component, just plants. Urine is sterile, so harmful microorganisms shouldn't be a problem. I thought that something like that kang kong that (from what I gather) grows very fast. It could be used for animal feed or even just compost. The nutrient input is free. You know how a large part of vitamin suplement pill gets excreted allegedly? Does that mean that human urine (at least from vitamin eaters) contains all sorts chelated minerals and vitamins for the plants?? -Mark

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