An aquaponics system is considered functional and established once system cycling is done, the nitrifying bacteria is established, and there are no signs of fish stress and plants' nutrient deficiencies. One crucial factor that has a vital role in aquaponics system cycling is nitrate.
Ammonia plays a significant role in an aquaponics system. It starts the nitrogen cycle and is an engine to your system's ecology. Fish produce waste that is full of ammonia. Bacteria convert them into nitrites and then nitrates necessary for plant growth.