Project JENNY
Aquaponic Research Project · Coral Reef Alliance · 2020
AQUAPONIC RESEARCH PROJECT
- Sponsor
- Coral Reef Alliance
- System
- JENNY DD — designed for research in remote and challenging locations
- Focus
- Captive reproduction of the native “Vieja maculicauda” and repopulation of local aquatic ecosystems
Sponsored by Coral Reef Alliance, this project supports biologists working with local fishing communities through research activities and an introduction to aquaponics. The JENNY system provides a practical learning and research platform, with a focus on studying the captive reproduction of the native “Vieja maculicauda”, a fish well known and consumed within local communities.
In addition to its research-oriented objectives, the JENNY system plays a pivotal role in supporting the repopulation of this native fish species within local aquatic ecosystems.
Furthermore, it serves as a practical demonstration of aquaponics' viability in addressing ecological and socio-economic challenges. It promotes sustainability by reducing reliance on ocean and reef fish species for consumption and mitigating the pressure on local aquatic environments caused by the harvesting of exotic invasive fish.
Goal
The design principles revolved around three key aspects:
Scalability of the system
Ensuring that the aquaponic system can be easily adjusted and expanded according to specific needs and requirements.
Ease of management by personnel with varying levels of expertise
Creating a system that can be efficiently operated and maintained by individuals with limited training or qualifications.
Accessibility of materials
Focusing on readily available and accessible materials, allowing for cost-effective implementation and widespread adoption of the aquaponic system.
Result
The species' adaptability to the system for reproduction has been exceptional, showcasing a comprehensive integration.
JENNY has proven its capability to be installed in challenging locations, surpassing the performance of alternative systems. The affordability of materials and assembly costs has made it highly accessible for the targeted project.
It is not only an excellent starting point for individuals embarking on their aquaponic journey, but also offers a comprehensive understanding of fish and plant production on a broader scale. Its unique scalability allows for a gradual and economically sound expansion, enabling individuals to assess its suitability for their specific needs and determine which products to pursue while carefully planning each step of the process.
Today, JENNY stands as a benchmark for research, learning and teaching, providing a portable standard that meets diverse needs.
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Building the first JENNY in RoatánConstrucción del primer JENNY en Roatán
In early 2020, the first JENNY system was built in Roatán in just three days, with support from the Coral Reef Alliance. The system was later transported to Tela.A principios de 2020 se construyó el primer sistema JENNY en Roatán en solo tres días, con el apoyo de Coral Reef Alliance. Posteriormente, el sistema se trasladó a Tela.
Learning with JENNY at Rancho AcebuchalAprendiendo con JENNY en Rancho Acebuchal
Later in 2020, a JENNY system was built at Rancho Acebuchal to teach how the system operates. These photos show its components, growing beds and crops.Más adelante, en 2020, se construyó un sistema JENNY en Rancho Acebuchal para enseñar su funcionamiento. Las fotos muestran sus componentes, camas de cultivo y plantas.
JENNY in TelaJENNY en Tela
In Tela, Julio San Martin manages the JENNY system. These photographs show the system, fish including Vieja maculicauda (copetona) and currinche, and produce including chile cabro.En Tela, Julio San Martín gestiona el sistema JENNY. Las imágenes muestran el sistema, peces como la Vieja maculicauda (copetona) y el currinche, y productos como el chile cabro.
JENNY at Lancetilla Botanical Garden · 2026JENNY en el Jardín Botánico Lancetilla · 2026
In 2026, Fundación PROLANSATE installed a DD JENNY aquaponics system at Lancetilla Botanical Garden. PROLANSATE has taken the project forward following its transfer from Coral Reef Alliance. The site is intended for training institutions and communities to replicate the system.En 2026, la Fundación PROLANSATE instaló un sistema acuapónico DD JENNY en el Jardín Botánico Lancetilla. PROLANSATE continúa el proyecto tras su transferencia por Coral Reef Alliance. El lugar se utilizará para capacitar a instituciones y comunidades para replicar el sistema.
