Aqualibrium uses fish to grow plants, and plants to grow fish

The Aqualibrium is an aquaponics kit, that combines fish and plants. The fish live in an enclosure in the bottom of the system, where they poop on a regular basis. A pump continuously carries that waste-laden water up into the top section, where it serves as a fertilizer for the plants. The plants' growing medium mechanically filters particles out of the water, while bacteria living in that medium help neutralize accumulated ammonia and other fish-unfriendly nasties. As a result, when the water flows back down to the fish from the biofilter, it's been cleaned up.

While the plants could just be ornamental, the idea is that people would use the systems to grow things they could eat, like vegetables and herbs. In large-scale aquaponics operations, the fish can be eaten, too.

The Aqualibrium is modular (identical stackable sections hold the fish and the plants) and looks quite chic and futuristic – you could imagine Blade Runner's Rick Deckard grabbing a quick salad from one, before heading off to shoot some wayward replicants. This look is entirely intentional, as the makers state that it was "inspired by the designs of futurist Jacque Fresco."

Source: gizmag.comAdded: 28 October 2013