Ever forget to clean out the tank? Or water the plants, for that matter? This design kills two birds (but no fish!) with one stone, and doubles as a fun instructional tool for kids learning about how natural systems work.

From the makers: “Grow fresh produce right in the comfort of your own home – beans, basil, thyme, baby greens, oregano, mint, parsley, spinach and so many other delicious foods! This closed-loop eco-system uses the fish waste to naturally fertilize the plants above. In turn, the plants clean the water for your pet fish.”

What started as a Kickstarter project (which got more than enough funding) is now in pre-order mode at Back to the Roots. No soil needed – the plants grow on rocks, and are fed nutrients recycled (pumped up) from the fish tank below. That water, in turn, is passed back down, fresh and ready for reuse – essentially an entirely self-contained system (and particularly great for those of us who hate certain regular chores!).