What causes algae in ponds?
Algae control is usually the largest maintenance problem in a pond. When setting up a new pond it is normal to have excess algae growth until an ecological balance has been established. This balance is achieved through good water circulation and the right proportion of floating, marginal, and submerged plants, fish, and scavengers such as water-snails and tadpoles. Most plants provide oxygen to the water and all plants absorb nutrients from the water. Submerged plants (also called oxygenating plants) are beneficial because they produce especially large quantities of oxygen and provide supplemental food for fish as well as a place to spawn. Floating plants are most beneficial for providing shade (important to keep the water cooler as cool water holds more oxygen and is healthier for your fish), reducing water evaporation, and providing hiding places for the fish. A little algae is natural, will always occur, and is to a certain extent necessary for a healthy pond. Excessive algae howeve
