Aquaponics vs. Biofloc vs. Aquabioponics: which system best optimizes tilapia production?

Global interest in sustainable tilapia aquaculture has driven the development of integrated production systems that enhance nutrient recycling, water-use efficiency, and biological performance. This study evaluates tilapia growth, water-quality stability, and production economics across aquaponics, biofloc, and hybrid aquabioponics systems under standardized 1,000 L tank conditions. A 60-day experiment was conducted using uniform stocking densities, feeding protocols, and controlled carbon-nitrogen regimes to ensure comparability. Results show that hybrid aquabioponics achieved the highest daily growth rates and biomass yields, driven by the combined effects of nitrification, heterotrophic assimilation, and plant-mediated nutrient uptake. Biofloc demonstrated the strongest economic performance through reduced feed consumption, superior feed conversion ratios, and lower variable costs. Aquaponics provided stable environmental conditions and moderate biological and economic outputs. Water-quality parameters remained within acceptable ranges in all systems, supporting high survival rates.