Fish, snails, and tadpoles all need oxygen to survive underwater. The invisible life, like bacteria, that keep the water clean also require oxygen to keep the pond healthy. Oxygen enters the pond by diffusing into the water from the atmosphere. Submerged aquatic plants also produce oxygen during the day. Decomposing algae and fish waste, plus the normal respiration of aquatic life, use up the oxygen faster than it can diffuse back into the water. This is especially true during hot summer months. The warmer the water is, the less oxygen it can hold. You must run an aeration device like a fountain or waterfall 24-hours a day, especially in summer. Do not turn off the pump at night. The pond will continue to use up the oxygen. You could wake up to dead fish floating on the surface.
What is the best way to aerate my pond?
The best way to get oxygen into the water is through vigorous surface agitation. Agitating the water surface with a waterfall or fountain will drive oxygen into the water. A slow trickle however, will not sufficiently aerate the pond. An air pump and air diffuser will also agitate the surface and add oxygen to the water. Keeping the pond clean also
helps increase the oxygen-holding capacity of the water. Decomposing algae, plant leaves, uneaten fish food, and fish waste use up oxygen. By reducing the “oxygen demand” caused by decomposing organic matter, the oxygen level will naturally increase. Clean your pond filter at least once a month. Remove dead plant leaves before they begin to rot.
Do I need to aerate in winter?
