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Guarding from Predators:
Why are my fish disappearing? |
Guarding pond fish from predators is the second
most common question Into the Pond receives from our readers each month (how to control algae is the most common question; see below!). In many parts of North America, heron attacks are common. Heron are attracted to the pond's clear water, full of brightly colored fish. Interestingly, heron are generally shy birds and usually visit ponds in the early morning or evening, when all is quiet.
Aside from the possibility of losing your fish, herons also bring other problems to your pond fish, such as disease and stress that may cause disease.
There are a few effective ways to guard your pond from these predators:
1. Provide a hiding space for your fish. Sink clay pots into the pond to provide a shelter for your fish. If they've been attacked, they will know to go to this safe haven when they spot a heron on the pond.
2. Many pond owners use netting to cover their pond. Some do not like this method as it can be unsightly and difficult to enjoy your pond fish. However, if your pond has experienced a heron attack, netting can help in the short-term to deter future attacks.
3. For round-the-clock protection, consider a motion-activated sprinkler that scares animals away with a short, startling burst of water. When it ripples across the pond, the spraying water also obscures fish from sight, increasing the chance for fish to evade predators.
Thank you Bob from Ontario, Canada for providing ourJuly
Pond Pointer: Protecting your pond from heron and other bird attacks
One way to discourage birds from landing in your pond is to string fishing line across the pond, somewhere above the water and perhaps pulling the line tight under rocks or tying the line to bushes or trees. The birds can spot the fishing line and simply won't land, as they don't want to get caught up in the line with their wings and feet. I tried it out last year and didn't lose a single fish. This method essentially works for shallow ponds where birds could wade through the water. For those of us who can't enjoy deep water, either for the lack of space, tree roots or in my case, local bylaws, it seems to work just fine.
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| Why is Biological Filtration Important? |
There are two basic methods to filtration: mechanical and biological. Many filters
contain both mechanical and biological functions. However, if you are using a filter without biological filtration you may be experiencing an algae problem,
and, if you have fish in your pond, the build up of ammonia will cause your fish to become stressed and possibly sick.
Mechanical filtration uses filter pads to trap dirt and debris, while biological filters use the natural biological process to
improve the water. Biological filtration converts harmful ammonia into relatively harmless nitrates by way of the nitrogen cycle.
These types of filters contain media such as open profile bio-activators, plastic balls or rings that have massive surface areas for beneficial bacteria to colonize. Water containing impurities comes in contact with these beneficial bacteria. The beneficial bacteria consume the impurities and discharge relatively harmless nitrates. The nitrates can then be absorbed by plants.
Keeping an eye on water levels...
To further ensure filtration systems are working properly, try accurate, easy-to-use, test strips. Testing the water can provide valuable information about the health of your pond. Generally pondkeepers test the water to ensure ammonia, nitrite, pH and KH are at an acceptable level.
For a new pond, water should be tested once or twice a week for the first month. Also, test whenever you suspect a problem with water or fish. After the first month, once a month is acceptable. Remember, always test after doing a partial water change to ensure optimum water quality.
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| Algae 101 |
Controlling algae can make pondkeepers crazy!
We understand. All pond owners experience an algae problem at some point in the life of the pond. There are ways to control and sometimes to
eliminate algae altogether!
Remember, there are two kinds of algae: single-cell algae (green water) and string algae (long, hair-like). The presence of algae does not mean your pond is unhealthy, but it can obscure your colorful fish, and, if left unattended, it can grow dramatically and deplete valuable oxygen needed for the health of your fish.
To get a handle on algae, try these three simple steps:
1. Add plants: In a natural setting, fish produce nutrients that are absorbed by plants,
leaving very little for algae. Therefore, increase the number of oxygenating plants
below the surface of the pond
(for tips on what kind of soil to use when adding plants to the pond see our July Ask the Expert question). Add these submerged plants that release oxygen to the water, such as Anacharis and Parrot Feather. As a guide, one bunch of six to seven strands of an oxygenating plant can be added to every two square feet of water surface. Floating plants, such as water lilies, hyacinth and lotus, provide shade and reduce direct sunlight to control algae growth.
2. Water treatments: Water treatments added to pond water are an
excellent option where algae problems already exist. There are many to choose from, so be sure to ask your local retailer to make a recommendation. Some water treatments work specifically to combat green-water algae, while others quickly clump algae, so they can be removed by filtration or a mesh net. If string algae are plaguing your pond, our first recommendation is to remove as much of it as you can, first using a sharp stream from a garden hose nozzle and a stiff brush. Then, remove string algae from the pond with a net, or use your hands.
3. Ultraviolet (UV) clarifiers: UV clarifiers combat green water by
exposing suspended single-cell algae to very high levels of ultraviolet light, which destroys algae's reproductive ability. Remember,
UV clarifiers are very effective against green-water algae, but they do not control the growth of string algae.
Good luck, and let us know your tips to control algae!
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A Songbird Sanctuary
By Keith R. Heberling, Water Garden Expert |
There is nothing more relaxing than the sound of a cascading waterfall and the sweet tune of a songbird. Songbirds are naturally attracted to ponds and water features, and they are an integral part of the ecosystem. Many songbird species will eat insects, helping to make your outdoor experience more comfortable. They also spread seeds from wildflowers and plants; plus, the hummingbird will do a fabulous job of pollinating the flowers in and around your pond.
Make them feel at home by adding a birdbath to the perimeter of your pond, or partition a shallow, slow-moving area where they can bathe or drink. Or, create a place for them to nest. A few years ago, I mounted a cedar bird box on a pole next to my pond, and each year a Jenny Wren raises her new family there. You can provide them with nesting materials simply by having pond plants such as sedges, rushes or cattails. If you do decide to install a birdhouse, just make sure it is high enough to protect them from predators.
Making your own personal wildlife sanctuary is easy, and the rewards are many.
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| Visit www.TetraPond.com Today: |
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