Depending on the kind of aquaponics system that you have or choose to have, they all have their own differences but basically work the same way which makes them all aquaponics.
The main concept in an aquaponics system is that the fish waste becomes the food of the plants and at the same time, in this process, the plants filter the water for the fish.
This way, they co-depend on each other and make each other's environment livable.
The three aquaponics systems are: The ranch tank is the simplest system and does not need maintenance.
A hole in the ground that is filled with water serves as the tank of the fish, oxygenation will be provided by rain and filtration will come naturally.
Plants will not be edible in this system since the plants are on the surface of the water and growing beds are almost impossible to keep.
Solar tank is just like the ranch tank except that it makes use of an artificial tank where grow beds are supported on the surface of the water.
The plants float above the surface and only their roots are in contact with the water, they filter and oxygenate the water all at the same time.
A net or barrier is placed beneath the roots of the plants to keep the fish from nibbling on it.
The third kind has many variants in itself and it is the system where aquaponics growers can experiment and manipulate the system.
It makes use of a fish tank, growing beds and filter.
Water flow connects the fish tank and the grow beds and has many systems too.
This is where growers take full control.
One of aquaponics edge over conventional aquaculture, farming and other sectors of agriculture is the low maintenance given the rewards of harvest.
The only thing that you need to do every day is to feed the fish.
Other than this, maintenance on a daily basis is not required.
Everyone knows that feeding the fish only once every day is necessary.
They will survive off of having one meal per day.
Although those who grow fish for food production prefer to feed the fish more often once a day will still keep them alive and in good condition.
Not having enough time to feed them regularly should not stop you from feeding them as often as you would like.
You should consider a timed mechanical feeder or an on-demand feeder so the fish can eat only when they are hungry.
It is advised that to check on the fish and plants on a daily basis is best but for those who don't have the time, this is not a problem.
Check on your system when you have time.
See if the water flow is still working, if the drain is okay and free from debris and if the aeration and filtration systems are still working well.
You would also want to check if the fish are swimming vigorously and if they are still in good condition.
As for the plants, check for fungus, pests and discoloration.