Avoiding unsightly Algae
Brett Fogle
Excessive organic matter in the pond provides nutrients for
algae, contributing to its growth. Algae can obscure the view of
colorful fish, and more dangerously, it robs the water of
valuable oxygen and releases harmful pollutants.
UV clarifiers also are effective tools that use ultraviolet light
to destroy the reproductive ability of suspended algae. Dead,
microscopic algae will clump together into particles large enough
to be removed by filtration.
Increasing the amount of floating and oxygenating plants in your
pond is another simple solution to keeping the water clean, and
clear. Floating plants such as water lilies, water lettuce, lotus
and water hyacinth provide shade, reducing sunlight in the pond,
which helps control algae growth.
Submerged plants, also known as oxygenators, affect the carbon
dioxide and oxygen levels of the pond by competing directly with
algae for light and food. Oxygenators absorb nutrients from fish
waste and minerals through their leaves, helping to starve algae,
keeping the water clear. Some examples of oxygenators are
Hornwart, Anacharis and Parrot's Feather.
Brett Fogle is the owner of MacArthur Water Gardens and several
other pond-related websites including
www.MacArthurWatergardens.com
and Pond-Filters-Online.com. He also publishes a free monthly
newsletter called PondStuff! with a reader circulation of over
9,000. To sign up for the free newsletter and receive our FREE
'New Pond Owners Guide' visit MacArthur Water Gardens today!
