Maintaining a pond is not an easy task. It includes maintaining a healthy ecological balance, cleaning out the sludge, and controlling the algae booms.
A pond can be an attractive addition to the surroundings. Its size can be decided depending upon the available space and budget. It can be filled up with some aquatic plants and fish, like goldfish or koi fish. The pond should be provided with pumps and filtration system for water circulation and purification.
Different types of filters are available such as the biofilter, biological filter, and UV filter. Several things can affect a pond's ecosystem such as dead plants, uneaten fish food, insects, and waste from the creatures in pond.
Helpful Tips for Maintaining a Pond
◘ Regularly check the water level of the pond as pond water may evaporate continuously. The pond does not have an ability to hold the water during the rainy season unlike a lake or the sea. It may lose excess water during the dry season. Therefore, adequate water level should be checked and maintained.
The pond needs to be filled with freshwater as needed, for safety and health of the aquatic life in its ecosystem. If the water level is not dropped within 3 weeks, then some water needs to be pumped out and freshwater added in the pond.
Dechlorinator is used to minimize amount of chlorine in the newly added water. Dechlorination is important, as small amount of chlorine can harm or kill the fish in the pond.
◘ Checking the pond for the presence of any decaying plants and other waste is necessary. Regular check of the bottom of pond and removal of the decaying plants and debris from it is essential.
◘ The filtering system should be checked every 5 weeks for clogs or other obstructions. These can prevent the uninterrupted flow of water. The filter should work for 24 hours without interruption. Even if it stops for a few hours, it may lose a large amount of beneficial bacteria. It is necessary to maintain cleanliness of the pond regularly.
◘ Beneficial bacteria should be added to the pond. These are natural cleaning agents and maintain the ecosystem. They feed on fish waste and other organic debris in the pond, converting ammonia into nitrites, which are then converted to nitrates. Nitrates play a major role in pond filtration. They are absorbed by the aquatic plants, which release oxygen.
This nitrogen cycle helps to reduce phosphorus and other harmful contents in the pond. This cycle can also prevent the growth of algae. The beneficial bacteria feed on decaying matter such as fish waste, dead bugs, and leaves. Such organic waste is essential for the growth of algae.
The growth of algae in the pond water is prevented due to lack of the organic waste. These beneficial bacteria are available in four forms, i.e.liquid, powder, barley straw, and blocks.
◘ Proper aeration of the pond is very important, as the fish and bacteria need oxygen. Once the pond is provided with adequate aeration, it is easier to maintain it. You Fertilizing the water plants with appropriate fertilizers is also an important step.