Maintaining oxygen levels in Ponds – waterfalls and fountains installations.

Oxygen is essential for the well-being of fish and other aquatic life. Whilst oxygen is abundant in air, there is only about 20 times less of it in water, making respiration all the more difficult for aquatic life. The oxygen content of the water is therefore something that pond owners need to consider when managing water quality.

MAINTAINING OXYGEN LEVELS

To ensure that oxygen levels are maintained, follow a few basic guidelines:

Pond

• Ensure you have at least a fountain or waterfall in the pond, and keep it on 24hrs a day
• Do not overstock fish
• Prevent excessive algal growth
• Keep filters clean, always ensure that they emptied of any trapped sediment.
• Keep the base of the pond free from sediment, through the regular use of a pond vacuum, or  pump connected to a filter system
• Use an oxygen kit to keep an eye on oxygen levels.

If you need help servicing your pond to ensure that it is kept in the best condition so your fish and you can enjoy it at its best, then call Ponds 4U today and ask about our pond cleaning and maintenance services in Cardiff, Newport, Brigend and the surrounding areas of South Wales.

For more information on oxygen levels in your pond visit the Federation of British Aquatic Societies website.

Caring for your pond in autumn.

• Net your pond – To ensure that your fish are protected from predators but also to prevent leaves entering the pond water. Rotting leaves in the water will release gases and nitrates which are harmful to the fish and will also encourage algae.
• Looking after pond plants – Look to cut back and divide pond plants which have grown too much, also relocate any plants that are not hardy and cannot survive the winter by covering with a protective fleece.
• Adjust fish food quantity – Fish do not eat as much during the autumn and winter months. Uneaten food that remains in the water increases the risk of disease to your fish.
• Water Quality – take a test of the water quality using a pond water quality test kit and take any steps required if water quality is found to be poor.
• Algae treatment – If your pond has blanket weed and duckweed remove by hand or if necessary use a chemical treatment.
• Top up pond – If like this year the weather has remained warm then keep on topping up the pond with water. The more forceful water is added to the pond then the more oxygen will be added and chlorine dispersed.

If you require assistance in maintaining your pond then please contact us today on 01443 841288 / 07832 134176

For more information on the above and for other great advice and information about looking after your pond and garden visit the Gardener Blog