Design and Implementation of a Real-Time Aquaponics Automation System for Water Quality Management
Ahmad Zatnika Purwalaksana (a*), Bedy Purnama (b), Sayyid Abdul Matin (a), Adhi Kusumadjati(c)

a) Department of Physics, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Jl. Rawamangun Muka, Jakarta 13220, Indonesia
*ahmadzatnikap[at]unj.ac.id
b) Center of Excellence Artificial Intelligence for Learning and Optimization, Telkom University, Bandung, Indonesia, 40252
c) Physics Departement, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Academic Belt Road, Dhahran 31261, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Rapid population growth in urban areas such as Jakarta has led to a decrease in green open spaces and environmental degradation. Aquaponics emerges as a viable urban farming solution- however, its success relies heavily on precise water quality monitoring to ensure optimal plant growth and fish health. This research aims to develop a microcontroller-based automated aquaponics system for real-time water quality control and fish maintenance. The system integrates a DS18B20 temperature sensor, a pH-4502C sensor, and an MQ-135 gas sensor, utilizing actuators such as water pumps, peristaltic pumps, and compressors to maintain ecosystem stability. Key hardware components include an Arduino Uno and a Nextion HMI LCD for real-time data visualization. The development follows the ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) model, with sensor validity confirmed through calibration and statistical analysis. The system algorithm is programmed to activate cooling mechanisms when temperatures reach at least 23 degrees Celsius or exceed 30 degrees Celsius, and to initiate water circulation when pH levels fall outside the range of 6.0 to 7.0. Results demonstrate high sensor accuracy and the capability of the MQ-135 sensor to monitor gas at three distinct points. The system proves stable for long-term operation and serves as an efficient prototype for small-scale automated aquaponics systems.

Keywords: Aquaponics, Automation, Microcontroller, Real-time Monitoring, Water Quality

Topic: Instrumentation and Computational Physics