Overview of the Development Potential of Aquaponics in France: Presentation and Critical Review of an Alternative Pathway for Aquaculture and Horticultural Production

The article introduces the origins and principles of aquaponics, highlighting its integration of recirculating aquaculture and hydroponic plant production to recycle fish farm effluents and reduce chemical inputs. It details the APIVA® project and its partners, which developed functional aquaponic pilot systems in France and studied their economic viability, environmental performance, nutrient flow modeling, and product quality. The paper identifies the advantages and drawbacks of various system designs, presents international commercial applications, analyzes the rise of urban and peri-urban French projects, and proposes a typology of project holders, offering a critical perspective on this innovative pathway for aquaculture and horticulture.