The Basics Of Algae Control:

What Every Pond Owner Needs To Know

This article originally appeared on beforeitsnews.com

Algae are a natural part of aquatic environments, but they become a problem because an attractive pond turns greenish-brown and slimy. It can change the look of the pond and also the water quality, and in turn, affect the health of the animal and plant inhabitants.

Proper algae management has become critical for pond owners. It not only maintains the pond’s aesthetic value but also ensures its health. Below, you will learn key facts and crucial recommendations on how to maintain a clear and attractive pond.

Factors Contributing to Algae Growth

Several factors affect algae growth in ponds such as the environment and biological factors. These include:

1. Sunlight

Light is necessary for the algae since they use it to perform photosynthesis, the process through which they turn light energy into chemical energy. Of all the conditions required for algal growth, light stands out as the most critical since most algae cannot survive where light is scarce. Pond shading, whether naturally by plants or with artificial structures, can be used to control this growth.

2. Nutrients

Two of the most important nutrients believed to support algae growth include phosphorus as well as nitrogen. These nutrients build up in water bodies from fish excreta and decomposing plant material, including leaves and plants.

3. Water Movement

Algae are known to develop more in stagnant water. Water circulation provoked by a fountain or an aerator could destroy different types of algae, including filamentous and planktonic ones. Aerating the water makes nutrients to be circulated in the water and hence makes them less available to algae.

4. Pond Ecosystem Balance

One of the most important principles to remember in balancing algae is that an overall balance of the pond ecosystem is sought. A natural pond is composed of a wide variety of plant and animal species that can compete with algae for food and sunlight. For instance, underwater vegetation may use up nutrients and also limit light penetration into the water hence hindering algal growth. In the same way, certain species of fish and other aquatic animals feed on algae as well as other plant materials. We will talk more about these below.

Algae Control for Ponds: What You Need to Do

It is not only necessary to eliminate the algae but also to prevent them from coming back, which is why controlling algae growth in ponds is not a simple matter. Here are some ways to optimize algae control for ponds:

1. Proper Pond Construction

Always make your pond have deeper depths because shallower bodies of water are more suitable for algae. A body of water that is at least 2-3 feet can minimize the possibility of algae growth.

2. Aeration

Enhancing the levels of dissolved oxygen in the pond promotes the growth of essential bacteria that feed on nutrients essential for algae growth. Fountains or waterfalls, for example, introduce oxygen as well as water movement, which will not allow algae to take over the pond.

3. Water Circulation

Water circulation is important as it helps avoid deposition of nutrients in certain areas within the water body. Cycling of water aids in the diffusion of nutrients all over hence providing a natural barrier against the growth of algae, ensuring that all the aquatic life forms in your pond can effectively compete.

4. Use of Aquatic Plants

Aquatic plants, if balanced correctly, directly compete with algae for light and nutrients and can end up outcompeting the algae. The nutrients required by algae are automatically limited by the inclusion of a variety of plants which naturally grow in water.

Aquatic plants may include submersed vegetation such as eelgrass and hornwort, as well as emergent vegetation such as water lilies and duckweed. These plants do not only consume nutrients but also shade parts of the pond, limiting the amount of light available for algae growth.

5. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Regularly clean the substrate at the pond bottom because this material can contain nutrients for the growth of algae. Sweeping the substratum of the pond or scooping it with a pond net will help with algae control for ponds. Also, tend to the aquatic plants by shearing and eliminating the dead parts.

6. Avoid Overfeeding Fish

Feeding fish beyond the recommended portions pose a problem for the pond since the extra feed rots in the water, releasing nutrients that support algae growth. Make sure to feed the fish only as much as they can eat in a few minutes only.

7. Use Pond Skimmers

Pond skimmers are devices that are fitted at the waterside to constantly suck in water containing floating matter and algae. It operates through scooping water from the surface and it has a compartment to hold debris which is easily detachable for washing. It is helpful in maintaining water clarity and minimizing algae development.

Skimmers are typically utilized in conjunction with the pond’s filtration system for improved water transparency and quality. This method makes it possible to manage the bottom as well as the top part of the pond, which is important in preventing the growth of algae and catering for aquatic life.

Other Methods of Algae Control for Ponds

Biological methods can also be used for algae control for ponds. These include:

1. Introducing Algae-Eating Fish

Grass carp are famous for their inclination towards certain types of algae and other water plants. For large ponds, grass carp can be a great solution because their dietary inclinations can effectively prevent the overgrowth of plants and algae. However, it is important to note that most US states have restrictions on this breed of fish.

Tilapia are also known for their ability to control algae in pond structures. However, they cannot tolerate cold climates and may not survive the winter, thus requiring restocking every year.

2. Utilizing Beneficial Bacteria

There are several bacterial products in the market containing particular strains of bacteria that are meant to reduce algae blooms. These products can be added to the water often, including during the regular pond maintenance chores.

Chemical Control of Algae

While manual and biological approaches are the most appropriate methods for algae control, chemical control such as the use of algaecides may also be considered in the management of algae, especially due to their immediate results.

The algaecides can be in liquid form, granular or in pellet form and the active ingredients in algaecides vary. Some are copper-based, which are effective but are known to harm fish and other aquatic life forms if applied carelessly. Some might still have enzymes or organic compounds that are said to be harmless to fish and plants.

The correct procedure must also be followed when using algaecides. Possible adverse effects include toxicity to fish and other organisms and an interruption of the pond’s biological balance. It is always important to measure the pond’s volume well to determine the appropriate dosage.

Using Algaecides: What You Need to Note

Most algaecides should be applied during the evening or early morning because they can reduce dissolved oxygen in the water. Water with high temperatures is able to support less oxygen and when algaecides are applied, there is a further reduction of the oxygen levels, thereby straining the lives of aquatic creatures.

You should also assess the possibility of runoff and the impact that it will have on the environment. Algaeides have the potential to move to parts of the soil and ultimately to water bodies around, hence affecting other forms of life in the ecosystem. Treat them as a last-resort solution and try hard not to use them by simply providing a favorable environment in a pond.

Essentially, understand that the sole reliance on chemical controls is not feasible in the long run. You may use this method in combination with other natural management techniques that can minimize the application of chemicals and promote the general health of the pond. It is always ideal to opt for the use of other methods, and use chemicals only when it becomes unavoidable.

Conclusion

Algae control in a pond is all about managing the biological population and community in that water body. This guide has highlighted basic removal techniques like skimming and using aerators, and natural solutions like the use of beneficial bacteria and algae eating fish. Chemical treatments are also possible but their application has to be limited and if possible avoided because of their effect on both the pond and the environment.

It is important to remember that pond maintenance is very important for proper algae control. Creating a proper maintenance schedule to check water quality, nutrients, plants, and fish ensure that a balance can be achieved, helping to keep the pond healthy and algae free. By following the tips above, you will be able to maintain the beauty of the pond while promoting the wellbeing of its aquatic inhabitants.