Application of FLOCponics to improve water quality (phosphate, sulphate, calcium, potassium)

FLOCponics is a biofloc-based F&D (flood & drain) aquaponics system that can improve water quality, including phosphate, sulfate, calcium, and potassium values. This study aims to obtain optimal water quality so that tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and pakcoy plants (Brassica rapa L.) can grow fast and have high survival rates. The FLOCponics series consists of fish tank (FT), mechanical filter (MF), biofilter (BF), sum tank (ST), and hydroponics bed (HB). In general, the concentrations of sulfate, calcium, and potassium are still within the acceptable quality standard intervals, except for phosphate concentration. The study results show that the application of FLOCponics technology can improve water quality, which is indicated by good plant growth (absence of yellowing, wilting, and lack of nutrients). The same is true for fish, characterized by high growth and survival rates.