Should You Convert Your Existing Pond into a Fish Pond?

If you have an existing pond on your property, you might be thinking about adding fish to it. Here at Modern Design Aquascaping, we love the elegance and liveliness of a fish pond and hope to inspire you to take the plunge!
 
Here are some important considerations you'll need to make before you bring fish into your pond:
 
Is your pond big enough to support the fish?
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when determining whether or not your pond is big enough to accommodate your desired fish life. First, consider depth. If you plan to add koi, your pond should be at least three feet deep. If you'd like to introduce goldfish, you can get away with a pond that is two feet deep.
 
You will typically need at least 10 gallons of water in your pond for every inch of fish--keeping in mind that those fish may grow. Within a few years, your koi could double in side and require much more water than in the beginning, so it's important to consult with an expert for a proper calculation. The ultimate goal of any fish pond is that it be a healthy and happy environment for those gorgeous fish.
 
Do you need to add more aeration?
To maintain adequate oxygen levels in your pond means that your beautiful fish can breathe freely. The way you increase dissolved oxygen levels in the water is by adding aeration to your pond in the form of a waterfall, fountain nozzle, or aerator.
 
A few signs that fish aren't getting the oxygen they need from their pond? They may start to collect at the surface of the water, or you might notice they close their mouths even when they're not being fed. If you notice those things happening, it's a big hint that you need to add more aeration to your pond.
 
Have you brushed up on your cleanup?
As with any other pet, you still need to clean up after them. The way to clean up after fish is to use a high-quality filtration system. This is one of those areas where you can't have too much of a good thing. That means it's a wise move to select a filter that can handle a higher pond volume than what you have, and one that also uses UV Clarification to help reduce the need for algaecides when it warms up.
 
These are just a few of the beginning considerations you'll need to make when you decide to add fish life to your pond, but we hope it helps get you imagining the possibilities. All of us at Modern Design Aquascaping are well-qualified and happy to help guide you in the transformation of your pond. Would you like to learn more? Call us today and schedule a consultation 865-995-1234.