Oxygen is vital for your pond life! Your fish require a proficient level of oxygen to aspirate.
Oxygen naturally occurs in ponds through the process of photosynthesis, where plants convert carbon dioxide, sunlight, and minerals into oxygen through this natural process.
Reliable sources of oxygen for your pond are:
Plants, especially small, controlled amounts of algae.
Water movement also known as aeration. This can be achieved by waterfalls or naturally from rain and wind.
Oxygen levels should remain at no less than 6mg per litre of water. Anything less than this can have a detrimental effect on your pond life.
Symptoms of insufficient oxygen supply:
Your fish gasp at the surface of the pond for air.
The gills move faster than usual.
The fish appear lethargic and swim less.
Death.
If the oxygen level drops below a reading of 5mg per litre the fish will start to feel stressed and exhibit abnormal. The lower the levels of oxygen the more dangerous this is to your fish and their lives.
Low levels of oxygen can be caused by:
Overstocking with fish.
Algae blooms not controlled as this blocks the sunlight and prevents photosynthesis, during dark periods the plants will use the oxygen too, however they will be unable to produce it.
The pond having elevated levels of waste that requires breaking down naturally within the pond as this also uses the available dissolved oxygen.
There are ways that you can help to maintain healthy and adequate oxygen levels in your pond:
Water features/waterfalls as this helps with aeration.
Do not overstock your pond.
Add natural plants and maintain their growth to prevent them blocking all the sunlight.
Regularly maintain your pond.
Ensure your pond has adequate filtration and pumps.
Do not overfeed the fish as leftover foods add to the waste level.
If in doubt call the pond medic today!
