Aquascape Eco: Frequently Asked Questions

How many fish can I have in my pond?

Great question! The number of fish depends on your pond’s age and size.

• New ponds: Start with one inch of fish per square foot of pond surface.

• Established ponds: You can go up to two to three inches of fish per square foot.
  Remember to dechlorinate new ponds before adding fish!

How do I introduce new fish into my pond?

To make your fish feel at home, follow these steps:

1. Check the pH – It should be between 7.0 and 8.0.

2. Dechlorinate the water – Use a product like Tetra’s Aquasafe.

3. Equalize the temperature – Float the sealed fish bag in your pond for 15 minutes in the shade.

4. Gradually mix water – Every 5 minutes, remove a cup of bag water and replace it with pond water (repeat 3 times).

5. Release the fish – Avoid pouring bag water into the pond.

6. Salt dip (optional) – If unsure about fish health, dip them for 15 seconds in a 1 lb salt per gallon solution (no iodized salt!).

How much should I feed my fish?

Feed only what they can eat in 5 minutes.

• Summer: High-protein food.

• Spring/Fall: Wheatgerm or low-protein food (easier to digest).

How do I know if my fish are stressed or sick?

Watch for these signs:

• Not eating

• Gasping at the surface

• Fins clamped close to body

• Hiding or isolating

• Rapid gill movement

• Flashing (rubbing against surfaces)

• White patches or fin damage

What should I check if my fish are dying?

Test for:

• Chlorine levels (make sure water is dechlorinated!)

• pH, ammonia, nitrite, and oxygen levels

• Potential toxins (like runoff from nearby chemicals)

• Electrical hazards (yes, it can happen!)

How can I protect my fish from Blue Herons?

• Pond netting – The most effective method!

• Blue Heron decoy – Move it every few days (they’re territorial).

• Fishing line perimeter – String it 2-3 feet above ground.

• Get a dog – Some pups love chasing them away!

Why use pond salt?

Adding 1-1/4 cups per 100 gallons helps fish by:

• Reducing stress

• Improving gill function

• Adding essential electrolytes

For ponds without plants, you can use 2-1/2 cups per 100 gallons.

How can I control algae?

Try these natural and mechanical methods:

• Oxygenating plants – They compete with algae for nutrients.

• Floating plants – Cover 60-65% of the surface.

• Biological filters – Matala BioSteps or similar.

• Pumps – Run them 24/7 (bacteria die if shut off too long).

• UV clarifiers – Optional but effective!

What about string algae (blanket weed)?

• Manually remove it.

• Use an algae control product like PondCare AlgaeFix.

How do I calculate my pond’s surface area?

• Rectangular pond: Length × Width = Square feet

• Circular pond: (Half the diameter)² × 3.14 = Square feet

How do I calculate my pond’s water volume?

• Rectangular pond: Length × Width × Depth × 7.5 = Gallons

• Circular pond: (Half the diameter)² × 3.14 × Depth × 7.5 = Gallons

How can I estimate my pond pump’s electricity cost?

Use this formula:
(Amps × Volts) ÷ 1000 × Cost per kWh × 24 × 30 = Monthly cost
(Your power company can tell you your kWh cost.)

How can I control mosquitoes?

• Fish will eat the larvae!

• No fish? Use Mosquito Dunks (BTI bacteria), one per 100 sq. ft.

What’s special about hardy water lilies?

• Perennial & frost-tolerant

• Bloom for 3-5 days, opening in the morning & closing at dusk.

• Low maintenance – Just give them 5-6 hours of sun and fertilize every 2-4 weeks (May-Sept).

• Colors: Pink, red, white, yellow, peach/orange.

What about tropical water lilies?

• More exotic & fragrant

• Frost-tender (treat as annuals in cold areas)

• Hold blooms high above water

• Vibrant colors: Blue, lavender, pink, purple, red, yellow, white

• Two types: Day bloomers & night bloomers

• Needs warm water (70°F+)

What makes lotus plants unique?

• Huge, dramatic flowers & floating leaves

• Bloom all summer into fall

• Requires 5-6 hours of sun

• Plant in large containers & fertilize regularly

What about marginal (bog) plants?

• Thrive in shallow water at pond edges

• Provide height & texture to your water garden

• Many bloom with pink, white, or yellow flowers

What are floating plants good for?

• Add shade & color to ponds

• Reduce algae by blocking sunlight

• Provide fish spawning areas

Why are oxygenating plants important?

• They remove impurities & prevent algae

• Absorb carbon dioxide & release oxygen

• Provide shelter for baby fish

How do I winterize water lilies?

• Hardy lilies: Move to deepest part of the pond.

• Tropical lilies: Store indoors in a heated aquarium or moist sand (50-65°F).

By following these tips, you’ll keep your pond thriving year-round! Have more questions? Reach out to Aquascape Eco—we’re here to help you build the pond of your dreams!