At Akuna Ecoscapes, we understand the importance of clean, healthy water for the wellbeing of your pond and its inhabitants. While keeping pond water in perfect balance can sometimes seem challenging, a little knowledge goes a long way. Clear water doesn’t always mean your pond is thriving—if your fish are behaving oddly, there may be an underlying issue with water quality.
As Certified Aquascape Contractors, we’re experts in creating and maintaining ponds that are not only stunning but also healthy and sustainable. Here are 7 expert tips to help you maintain clean water in your pond all year round.
1. Maintain a Healthy Fish Population
An overstocked pond can quickly lead to water quality issues. A good rule of thumb is to have no more than 25cm of fish per 450 litres of water. Excessive fish waste disrupts the natural balance of your pond, so if you’re overstocked, consider rehoming some fish. Many pond specialists or retailers can assist with this.
2. Feed Fish Sparingly
Overfeeding is a common mistake that leads to uneaten food decaying in your pond, which affects water quality. Feed your fish no more than once per day, providing only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes. High-quality floating fish food is ideal, as it’s less likely to settle at the bottom of your pond.
3. Balance Aquatic Plants
Plants are essential for pond health, but balance is key. Ideally, 40% to 60% of your pond’s surface should be shaded by plants during peak growing season. However, too many plants can reduce oxygen levels at night, which your fish rely on to survive. Proper plant selection and placement help maintain harmony in your pond.
4. Use the Right Pump for Your Pond
Your pump should circulate the entire volume of water in your pond at least once every hour. Ensure that debris doesn’t clog the pump or filter, and choose a pump that matches the size and flow needs of your pond and waterfall. Proper circulation is critical to maintaining clean and oxygenated water.
5. Remove Debris Before It Decays
Leaves, sticks, and other debris can decay and release harmful ammonia into your pond. Use a pond skimmer or net to remove debris before it settles. Decaying organic matter, combined with fish waste and leftover food, can lead to water quality issues. Beneficial bacteria, like those found in Aquascape treatments, help break down waste and maintain a healthy nitrogen cycle. For ultimate convenience, consider an Automatic Dosing System to dispense treatments and beneficial bacteria automatically.
6. Choose the Right Filtration System
Your pond filter must match your pond’s size and needs. An undersized or clogged filter can’t effectively maintain water quality. Always opt for a filter that exceeds your pond’s capacity. In Aquascape ecosystem ponds, two types of filters work together:
Mechanical Filter (Skimmer): Removes surface debris like leaves and twigs.
Biological Filter (BioFalls): Breaks down waste using beneficial bacteria and converts it into nutrients for plants.
For smaller ponds, an add-on filtration system can be a simple and effective solution.
7. Keep Water Cool in Hot Weather
High temperatures can reduce oxygen levels in your pond, which is vital for fish health. When water temperatures exceed 24°C, shaded areas provided by aquatic plants become critical. If you notice fish gasping at the surface, install an aerator to boost oxygen levels during the hottest days of summer.
Trust Akuna Ecoscapes for Healthy, Sustainable Ponds
At Akuna Ecoscapes, we pride ourselves on creating ponds that not only look beautiful but thrive naturally. As Certified Aquascape Contractors, we bring years of expertise to every project, ensuring that your pond remains clean, balanced, and healthy throughout the seasons.
Ready to transform your pond or create a new water feature? Contact Akuna Ecoscapes today to get started!