Five Elements of a Healthy Backyard Pond Ecosystem to Keep in Mind

Filtration system

The type of filtration system you utilize for your backyard pond should use a biological as well as a mechanical filter. A biological filter works by providing a surface area where bacteria that are beneficial to the pond’s ecosystem colonize and aid in removing excess nutrients from the pond’s water. A mechanical filter, also known as a skimmer prefilters water and holds the pump and removed debris from the pond water’s surface. The right filtration system will promote clean water and deter mosquitoes.

Rock and gravel

Pond liners can become degraded because of UV light from the sun shining on them. In order to prevent some of this degradation is to use rocks and gravel. Rocks and gravel, like the filtrations system, also provide surface area for beneficial bacteria that help in breaking down excess nutrients and remove organic debris from the floor of the pond.

Recirculation system

Your backyard pond’s recirculation system is made up of the pumps and plumbing that keep your pond’s ecosystem healthy and looking good. Determining the correct sizes when it comes to your pumps and plumbing is imperative in preserving the aesthetics of your pond or water feature. An efficient and effective recirculation system keeps your water feature’s water moving which promotes oxygen levels that maintain healthy fish, plants, and beneficial bacteria in your pond’s ecosystem.

Fish

Contrary to what many people think, fish do not add to the amount of maintenance needed to maintain a backyard pond. In fact, pond fish reduce the amount of maintenance needed as they eat algae and feed from the pond’s floor AND they’re fun to look at!

Aquatic plants

Besides adding color and beauty to your backyard pond, plants work as natural filters. Pond plants not only thrive on excess nutrients, but also deprive algae of food. Aquatic plants are critical in maintaining the health of your backyard pond’s ecosystem.