The fight against pond algae will come with living creatures. That either feed on the pond algae or feed on the nutrients the pond algae needs.
As a temporary measure, a supply of water fleas can be introduced. These tiny crustaceans mainly feed on pond algae, but remember they will not get rid of the cause of pond algae.
Another tiny crustacean, known as cyclops because of its one eye, swims in the same jerky fashion as the water fleas, but looks like an elongated pear. Both of these crustaceans have two purpose, one to eat pond algae and second live food for the fish and will multiply rapidly in an established pond. There presence welcome.
Valuable assistance in coping with pond algae will come from aquatic snails. They should always be present. Not only do they multiply, and provide a reserve supply of food for the fish, but they are scavengers. Devour discarded fish food, as well as dead worms and other animal matter. Some snails are partial to plants, but the Rams horn snail can be relied on to its job with out too much harm to plants. If the snails devour pond plants they are just helping out so we don’t need to do the pruning.
The fight against pond algae.
Freshwater shrimp will dispose decaying animal matter. And will be eaten by the fish if they can catch them. These crustaceans are used to taking risks like this and are good at keeping away from their predators. Under certain conditions they can breed in abundance and should be able to hold there own in the war of the waters.Tadpoles of frogs and toads are useful scavengers. At first they have a vegetarian diet, but later become carnivorous, quickly disposing animal matter lying about. Doing their part in the fight against pond algae. Tadpoles are common in spring but, by early summer they will have matured and leave the water. Don’t be surprised if you see a swarm of young toads or frogs jumping around your feet. They will continue to help in the garden getting rid of caterpillars and other pests. Did you know a tadpole will always be a tadpole unless they receive sunlight.
Even though you installed your pond algae scavengers, take care you don’t give them more work than they can handle, the worst is over feeding the fish. Over feeding ? If all food is not eaten, the food will decay, generating a fungus that will harm the that will harm the fish.
Freshwater Mussels against pond algae. Mussels will clarify the water by continually filter water threw their siphons, extracting particles of animal and vegetable matter. In a very small pond they may use up the food supply and die. Small ones may be left for the scavengers but, a Swan mussel can reach eight inches and could stink up the area. The Duck mussels too can become large. Large enough to dislodge lightly rooted plants as they move about. Crayfish are another source to clean up the pond and are food for the larger fish.
Other sources to remove algae would be fish. Tilapia will eat algae but be aware of the local regulations on all fish and creatures you add to your pond. Some may be prohibited and others may not survive your climate, such as Tilapia will die when the water drops below 60 degrees.
Now your thinking oh my all those little creature in my pond ? Look hard some may be there already helping to fight against pond algae.
Back to pond algae, Or check out our Beneficial Pond Bacteria Page.
