Adding Oxygen to Your Pond
Having a pond in your compound is a good way to grow some fish as well as add beauty to your outdoor view. What most people may not realize is that pond aeration is vital to get adequate oxygen so as to be able to support more fish and eliminate any odor that may come about from excess algae or build-up of gases. Most pond owners do not know how to get sufficient oxygen into their ponds.
You can either call an aerator or you can look through websites to learn the best pond aeration methods. Here are some ways in which you can get oxygen into your pond.
Pond Fountain
This method works because the water is constantly being changed through the water fountain. During the time that the water passes through the fountain, it absorbs oxygen and lets out harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide out. You will need a proper aerator to be able to get somebody who understands how to build a proper fountain. The water exchange should work properly if there is to be enough oxygen at the bottom of your pond.
Having More Plants
Although a significant amount of plant cover, such as lilies, can decrease surface area, and thus the amount of atmospheric oxygen absorbed, plants produce oxygen and this dissolves into the water. Submerged plants and microscopic algae are some of the best sources of oxygen. Water can only absorb oxygen through the surface. If you have too many plants spread across the surface of the water, then there will be less oxygen getting to the bottom. The plants may be limiting the amount that should be going into the water. You should look out for plants like water lilies that spread over the water and control the spreading. Both algae and plants can produce or absorb oxygen.
Running Water Through A Stream
This is another way in which you can increase the oxygen at the bottom of the pond. Create waterways so that they may form a stream-like creation. This will leave the water exposed to more oxygen and the pond will be properly aerated. This method does require an aerator to be able to tell you the proper ways to run the pond water through a stream.
Reduce Fish Population
More fish means more oxygen consumption. Do not let your fish become too many. If they are increasing rapidly, employ methods to reduce their numbers. You can try feeding them less or relocating them to another place. There are plenty of places where you can sell pond fish. If you notice that they are very many especially during the hot months, you can look for a place to relocate them safely.
Waterfall
Running the water through a waterfall will increase the oxygen levels because the water will be exposed and be able to absorb more oxygen. The waterfall does not need to be too high. A few meters will suffice.
Aeration Kits
There are artificial aeration kits that pond owners can buy. There are some that can be used during the hot months and some that can be used all year round. Oxygen levels in the water tend to drop when it is too hot, so if you live in an area where the climate is naturally hotter, it is best to get the all-year-round kits. You can check online for reviews from other pond owners to see which kits they recommend. If you have a pump for aeration, make sure that you have a backup pump during the hotter months so that there may be enough oxygen for the fish. The backup will come in handy if the other pump fails.
Additional Tips
If you have a big pond, it is advisable to get a professional aerator to help with the pond aeration. They understand the systems better and will be able to advise you on what to do. A professional aerator can build a system that will be able to support the pond life properly. Some aeration methods like waterfalls can take time to build properly. If you get a professional, they will be able to do the job sufficiently.
Every pond is different and what works for one may not work for the other. Hiring an aerator is beneficial because they will know which aeration methods are suitable for your pond.