The modern version of aquaponics has been developed fairly recently, and this system is increasingly being used. Within New York City, there are three aquaponic farms. The benefits of using this system to raise fish and grow edible greens is being recognized. Aquaponics allows the water to be reused, uses fish excrements as fertilizer and plant food instead of chemical fertilizers, and removes complications of using soil such as certain diseases and weeds. These are only a few of the benefits of using the aquaponics farming system.

Aquaponics may be a good system if it is carried out in a large-scale manner. For home uses, it is almost impossible. A good aquaponics system will require a green house, or a glassed in area that allows sunlight, and allows the temperature and humidity to be controlled. There needs to be a constant supply of energy to be used to control the temperature and to run the water. The farm needs to be supervised to make sure everything is running smoothly and safely.

With all of these complications, aquaponics is not meant to be used for home gardens. For commercial use, it may be a good choice, for the positives of aquaponics listed above. Observations also show that leafy greens grown in an aquaponics system grow faster. Aquaponics farms in the city also allow fresh vegetables to be sold within the city, as large traditional farms may not be possible. It is an alternate method, that can ultimately benefit the people of the city.