|
Press green button to
listen
| |
Pond Algae Control ... It Is Easy
Algae Growth (Photosynthesis)
Koi ponds are usually closed recirculating aquatic systems, meaning that
these systems, unlike natural ponds with streams flowing through them, lack
a fresh-water flow-through source. Rather, closed recirculating aquatic
systems rely on filtration to purify and reoxygenate their water. Outdoor
ponds that are closed systems are subject to seasonal algae blooms and
attached filamentous algae growth due to nutrient and carbon dioxide
buildup. Increased levels of nutrients and carbon dioxide create the
potential for a healthy algae population.
Pigments (chlorophyll, fucoxanthin and carotenoids) in the algae absorb
light energy and use it to convert carbon dioxide and nutrients into new
cell biomass through photosynthesis. The primary nutrients of concern are
nitrogen and phosphorus. Nitrogen is a by-product of decomposed fish waste,
uneaten fish food and accumulated sludge in the bottom of the pond.
Planktonic Algae
Planktonic algae are waterborne single-cell algae most commonly referred to
as Green Water. Planktonic algae usually occur (algae bloom) as the result
of increased levels of nutrients and carbon dioxide in pond water, combined
with the energy of sunlight. Planktonic algae can be controlled with aquatic
plants, shade, ultraviolet sterilization or chemical methods. Using aquatic
plants as an algae control requires that a specific number of mature plants
are added to the pond to compete with the algae for the available nutrients
and carbon dioxide. Shade is available only if foliage or a shelter inhibits
the pond’s exposure to sunlight. Chemical treatments can be successful, but
they can be expensive, temporary and potentially harmful to plants and fish. |
|
The most effective method of planktonic algae control is ultraviolet
sterilization. The many advantages of UV sterilization make it a very
attractive option for algae control. First, it is a physical treatment, so
it does not change the water chemistry of the pond. Second, it is very easy
to install. Third, the treatment takes place outside the pond, away from the
fish and plants.
Filamentous Algae
Attached filamentous algae can be seen growing on the rocks of a waterfall
or on the sides of the pond. The growth of filamentous algae results from
high levels of nutrients, carbon dioxide and the catalyst, the sun’s energy.
Methods of controlling filamentous algae include increased shade, reducing
the frequency of fish feedings, practical water changes, and the use of
chemicals or plecostomus (algae-eating fish) during the summer months.
author Steve Zimmer Emperor
Aquatics please
visit his site
| |
|
The
Pond Professor
Water
features Home Page |
List of Site
Contents | 