Is aeration essential for ponds? This is a question many pond owners ask, especially if they would like to cut costs. However, it is important to consider how difficult it will be for the fish and plants to thrive without an adequate supply of oxygen in the water. Some beneficial bacteria also need oxygen to thrive. A pond aerator is essential if you want your pond to sustain the life of fish and plants.
Reduction of pond muck
Animal waste and plants make up a significant portion of pond muck. Uneaten fish food usually decays at the bottom of the pond. If your fish is fed with poor quality or too much food, the fish waste increases. This adds to the muck layer. Ducks and geese also contribute to the amount of muck. Dead algae, weeds, twigs, leaves, and grass clipping also contribute to the muck in your pond.
A pond aerator will help mix the water reducing low oxygen levels usually present at the bottom of the pond. High oxygen levels help beneficial bacteria to metabolize excess nutrients. This will help reduce the muck at the bottom of the pond.
Improves the quality of water
When oxygen levels are low, the sediments at the bottom of the pond produce gases which affect the quality of water. This make it tough for fish to survive. A pond aerator will facilitate the movement of oxygen from the top to the bottom of the pond. A pond with an aerator is more transparent and cleaner than one that is without an aerator. Besides removing carbon dioxide, aeration helps to reduce alkalinity and stabilize the water’s pH.
Eliminates bad odor
Over time, ponds that have had still water for some time develop a bad odor. A pond aerator will help improve the movement of air in the water. Aeration also helps to reduce the growth of algae. Algae prevent the free flow of oxygen in the water and also contributes significantly on the foul smell emanating from ponds.
Aeration creates a healthy environment for fish and plants
Plants and fish coexist in ponds for a reason. When you have plants and fish, you will reduce the possibility of algae growing. Plants and fish need oxygen to thrive. Pond aeration makes sure that there is sufficient oxygen for the living organisms in the pond to survive. Algae and plants thrive under similar conditions. Plants compete for oxygen, and this starves the algae. Plants and fish have a symbiotic relationship. Fish waste is toxic to the fish but is nutrients to plants.
If you would like to have a pond with fresh water and a healthy environment for your fish, an aerator is essential. Before buying an aerator, it is critical for you to consider the size of the pond, both its depth and surface area. If you have a broad and deep pond, you need an aerator that can cover the entire area. A small pond aerator for a large surface area may not work effectively.
Related Posts
Loves home. I am here to provide how to make your home a much better place. 🙂 Blogging about HomeDecor, Home Improvements and more.