BACKGROUND




Background

Wilson Lennard (PhD) (Director) has been studying aquaponics for the past 20 years. He is a PhD graduate from Australia (RMIT University, 2006) with practical commercial aquaponics experience and knowledge. Wilson's PhD centred on optimizing the aquaponic process in terms of maximum plant growth and nutrient removal for the Australian Murray Cod fish species and the Green Oak lettuce variety. This was done by using a scientifically replicated experimental aquaponic system. Wilson proved that an optimal balance of fish to plants may be achieved, so that the same water may be used perpetually within the system.

Aquaponic Solutions was born out of Wilson's research and commercial experience; he designed, constructed and operated Australia's first commercial aquaponic farm in 2005. Wilson has subsequently developed SYMBIOPONICS™, a complete design and management methodology for aquaponic systems. In addition, Wilson has proven commercial aquaponic experience that has shown that his SYMBIOPONICS™ approach to aquaponic system design and management is completely technically viable, producing fish (Murray Cod) growth and yields and plant (over 25 species) growth and yields that are comparable to the relevant, associated, individual industries (Fish - Recirculating Aquaculture; Plants - Standard Hydroponics).

Aquaponic Solutions is now an into an international consulting firm, with a global customer base. Our aquaponic system design approach was developed in Australia, for World Wide application. Because our approach is simple and flexible, we have found that it is suitable for almost any aquaponic situation, fish or plant species around the world.

In addition to this aquaponic experience, Wilson also has skills and experience in associated aquatic disciplines, including freshwater aquaculture, marine aquaculture, hydroponics, integrated aquatic farming systems, freshwater aquatic ecology, environmental biology, constructed wetland design & construction, Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD), natural water treatment systems and hydraulic engineering. These skills and experience have been accumulated over a professional scientific career of over 30 years. He therefore brings a wide array of experience and a holistic environmental approach to Aquaponic Solutions.