When it comes to ecosystem ponds, proper water balance is vital for ensuring optimal clarity, fish health, and plant health. While most pond owners know how important this balance is, many are unsure of how to maintain it throughout the year. To maintain a healthy balance for your ecosystem pond and keep it looking beautiful all year, it is crucial to understand the importance of pond filtration and the elements that contribute to it. That is why the experts at Fontana Ponds & Water Features have provided a list of 3 things to know about pond filtration to help you keep your pond in the best possible condition.
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3 Important Elements for Effective Pond Filtration
The following elements of your ecosystem pond are vital for ensuring effective filtration and a balanced ecosystem:
1. Pond Skimmer
The main function of a pond skimmer—also known as a mechanical filter—is to remove debris and large particulates before they sink to the bottom of your pond and decay. The skimmer also hides the pump and other plumbing systems from view to preserve the natural appearance of your pond. There are two main types of skimmers: box skimmers and floating skimmers. While both types perform the same function, box-style skimmers tend to be more popular due to their reduced maintenance requirements.
2. Biological Filter
The biological filter receives water that has already passed through the mechanical filter and is typically placed on the opposite side of the pond. Water enters the biological filter through a flexible pipe located near the base of the unit. This water then flows from the bottom to the top of the filter, removing small to medium particulates that passed through the pond skimmer. As the biological filter fills, it will overflow over the waterfall lip, causing the water to cascade down rocks to create a beautiful and natural-looking waterfall. This waterfall is vital as it creates aeration for your pond, assisting in the circulation and health of the water.
3. Pond Plants
While aquatic plants certainly provide aesthetic benefits for your pond, the most crucial function they perform is assisting with the filtration of water. Plants help purify pond water by reducing nutrients, filtering out sediments, and absorbing toxic compounds through the process of phytoremediation. If these excess nutrients are not removed, algae will feed on them, resulting in green water and the formation of string algae. In addition to algae control, submerged and marginal plants provide food, shade, and protection for the fish and other wildlife that live in or around the pond.
To learn more about pond filtration and effective pond maintenance practices, get in touch with the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features. They can be reached through their online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding their services or your project.