Comparative Growth Performance of Ciherang Rice Under Hydroponic and Aquaponic Cultivation

This study investigated the effects of hydroponic (using AB Mix Nutrients) and aquaponic (utilizing catfish waste) cultivation methods on Ciherang rice plant growth, focusing on leaf and root characteristics, tiller number, and plant height. Visual observations showed distinct physiological responses to nutrient sources. Hydroponic leaves were brighter but exhibited early yellowing, whereas aquaponic leaves were darker green and healthier. Root coloration also differed, with hydroponic roots showing a reddish hue and aquaponic roots a darker tone, reflecting adaptation to inorganic and organic nutrients. Two-way ANOVA revealed that both cultivation method and plant age had a significant effect on tiller number and plant height (p < 0.001). At 49 days after planting, aquaponic rice reached 40.67 tillers and 81.67 cm in height, compared with 37.67 tillers and 72.67 cm in hydroponics, and produced panicles six days earlier. The enhanced performance in aquaponics is attributed to the continuous supply of balanced macro- and micronutrients from fish effluent, which improves nutrient availability, rhizosphere conditions, and overall vegetative growth. In contrast, hydroponics still supports healthy rice growth, although with lower effectiveness. These findings demonstrate that aquaponic systems provide superior growth conditions for rice plants, highlighting the potential benefits of integrating aquaculture with plant cultivation.