CREAS

CREAS Research

Compact Residential Ecosystemic Aquaponics System (CREAS) represents a significant advancement in sustainable living, merging cutting-edge aquaponics technology with residential applications. The second CREAS prototype, now fully operational, features enhanced system efficiency and improved habitat structures. An exciting addition to this model is the aquatic compost bin, which further promotes nutrient recycling and sustainability within the system. Beyond providing fresh, organic food for homeowners, CREAS aims to educate and inspire communities about the benefits of sustainable practices. Our research contributes to scientific understanding and offers practical solutions for sustainable living through annual updates and publications. Our ongoing efforts in research and development ensure that CREAS continues to lead in the creation of environmentally friendly and highly productive home gardening solutions.

Key Features

Key Features of the Second CREAS Prototype:

1. High-Efficiency LED Lighting

The new CREAS prototype utilizes LED lights equivalent to 4000W, ensuring optimal light conditions for plant growth. These lights are energy-efficient and provide the necessary spectrum for various plants, enhancing productivity and sustainability.

2. Improved Grow Bed Drainage

The drainage system of the grow bed has been upgraded from a constant flow to a flood-and-drain system using a bell siphon. This change improves oxygenation of the roots, promoting healthier plant growth and reducing the risk of root diseases.

3. Aquatic Compost Bin

An innovative feature of the new prototype is the aquatic compost bin. Kitchen scraps are thrown into this bin, where they are broken down by snails and small freshwater shrimp. This process recycles nutrients back into the system and provides live food for fish, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

4. Space-Efficient Crayfish Habitat

The crayfish habitat has been redesigned for greater space efficiency, utilizing PVC pipes of various sizes. This structure provides ample hiding spots for crayfish, improving their health, reducing stress, and dramatically increasing their population.

5. Vertical Towers for Additional Grow Space

To maximize the use of space, vertical towers have been added to the back corners of the grow bed. These towers provide additional growing space for plants, increasing the overall yield of the system.

Publications

Links to our academic journal publications will be available here. We have no estimate about a timeline for this.

CREAS Development

CREAS Models for Residential Use:

1. CREAS Modulas

The CREAS Modulas model will be designed for flexibility and adaptability. It will feature a modular design that allows users to customize their system to include cultivation of mushrooms, black soldier fly larvae, or fruit flies as fish food. This model will be perfect for those looking to experiment with these various optional components.

2. CREAS Muras

The CREAS Muras will be optimized for minimizing used floor space. The elongated design will maximize growing space within a compact footprint, making it ideal for urban environments or homes with limited space. The Muras model will support a variety of plants and provide efficient nutrient recycling.

3. CREAS Plenas

The CREAS Plenas model will offer a comprehensive solution for those wanting a complete aquaponics system. It will include extensive growing space and all of the modules available for CREAS Modulas. The Plenas model will be designed for maximum productivity and sustainability.

4. CREAS Felinas

The CREAS Felinas will be specifically designed for cat owners. It will feature an accessible grow bed that allows cats to lounge in and nibble on fresh cat grass. This model will ensure that the aquatic components are protected, providing a safe environment for both your pets and the aquaponics system. This unit will be much smaller than the other units, allowing you to place it anywhere that is best for your cats.

5. CREAS Futuras

The CREAS Futuras will be our most advanced model, featuring state-of-the-art AI technology for automated monitoring and control. It will include sensors that track such criteria as water quality, temperature, plant health, and pH, providing real-time data and automated adjustments. The Futuras model will be ideal for tech-savvy users who want to maximize efficiency and productivity with minimal manual intervention.

We anticipate that the Modulas model will be available for purchase through our webstore by spring of 2026, to be followed shotly after by the the optional Modulas modules.

Meet PSRD's CREAS R&D Team

This is Marina, a member of PSRD's AI staff (a ChatGPT Plus custom GPT). Her assistance has brought this project along more quickly than we ever could have imagined. Marina can be reached at CREAS@permasolutionsrd.org.