Why any one of these things can cause major problems in your Pond over summer
- Fully Stocked pond
- Big Koi
- Poor quality food
- Lack of Beneficial bacteria
- Shallow pond less than 40cm in full sun
- Murky water
- No water movement
- Algae
- high ambient temperature
key factors that affect pond oxygen levels:
Temperature-
Biological load - Simply put, more pond inhabitants mean greater demand for oxygen. Poor quality food, will cause more phosphates & organic material within the pond to complete the process of breaking down organic waste good bacteria needs oxygen , heavily stocked ponds can deplete the existing oxygen supply add extra aeration in summer and a pond block to produce more beneficial bacteria.
Water Clarity- dark, murky or turbid water can limit the ability of plants to photosynthesize & generate oxygen. Maintain clear water for healthy plant growth essential for natural oxygen production.
How water and oxygen mix The key to maintaining sufficient dissolved oxygen content in your pond is to understand the basic relationship between water and oxygen. Oxygen is introduced into pond water through two ways:
- Surface exchange - Encourage proper gas exchange by keeping an area of open water. This open area should be free of vegetation so surface water is exposed to fresh air.
- Mixing - Water turbulence of any kind, regardless of how it's generated, significantly increases gas exchange. The fastest, easiest way to raise the oxygen level in your pond is a water change or with an aerator, fountain, or waterfall.
