Ecosystem Ponds
Ecosystem
ponds can be easy to understand, At Pondtastic Water Gardens, we have
complete knowledge of what components go into a basic, or advanced
functioning ecosystem. An ecosystem pond works with Mother Nature to
provide food, shelter, and safety to the wildlife around it. It also
provides you with an all-natural, low-maintenance piece of paradise.
It’s important to remember, however, that every piece of the ecosystem
puzzle must be present in order for a true ecosystem to be in place.
Eliminate one of these elements and you’ve got an unbalanced ecosystem
that won’t be so low-maintenance anymore. Check out the things you’ll
need to get your ecosystem pond fired up:
Circulation System
is really just a fancy way of saying “pumps and plumbing.” The proper
size pump and pipe diameter are extremely important for the aesthetics
of a water feature. More importantly, an efficient circulation system
keeps the water moving and provides the necessary oxygen levels for
healthy fish and plants.
Proper Filtration System
includes the use of both a biological and a mechanical filter. A
biological filter provides surface area for beneficial bacteria to
colonize and remove excess nutrients from the water. A mechanical filter
will not only pre-filter the water and house the pump; it will also
skim debris from the water’s surface to prevent the accumulation of
organic materials on the pond floor.
Fish are
an integral part of any ecosystem. Unfortunately, fish are often seen
as creating a maintenance nightmare. Contrary to popular belief, fish
will actually reduce pond maintenance, as they graze on string algae
and bottom feed from the pond floor.
Aquatic Plants are
Mother Nature’s true filters. Plants are great for adding character
to a pond by providing color and texture, but from a filtration
perspective, they’re second to none. Thriving from the excess nutrients
in a pond and depriving algae of its food source, the aquatic plants
in a water garden, given proper coverage, are critical for the overall
health of the ecosystem.
Rocks, Gravel, and Bacteria have
been a controversial element in the hobby for many years. Many
enthusiasts have steered away from rocks and gravel out of fear that
their system will become a maintenance nightmare. On the contrary, rocks
and gravel will not only make your pond look more natural, they will
also protect pond liners from UV light degradation and they provide
tremendous surface area for beneficial bacteria to break down excess
nutrients in the water and dissolved organic debris on the pond floor.
Having
all these things in place makes all the difference in the health and
success of your water garden. Use them and work with Mother Nature,
not against her, for a chemical-free wonderland of water! The truth is
that most people opt for the ecosystem way of water gardening because
it’s easier and it just makes sense. A low-maintenance ecosystem pond
provides you with more free time to enjoy friends and family … while
gathered around your pond, of course!
