How Does an Ecosystem Pond Work?
What are all the parts of an ecosystem pond?
A pond is made up of many different parts and when those parts are assembled together correctly, they form a beautiful and naturalistic work of art that changes personality with the time of day, the change of the seasons, and the moods of Minnesota nature.
Ecosystem ponds work with nature to provide food, shelter, and safety to the wildlife around it. It also provides an all-natural, low-maintenance piece of paradise in your backyard. Every piece of the ecosystem puzzle must be present in order for a true ecosystem to be in place. Eliminate one of these elements and you’ve got an unbalanced ecosystem.
Below, you’ll see everything you need to get your ecosystem pond in perfect balance!
Skimmer (mechanical filter): will not only pre-filter the water and house the pump; it will also skim debris from the water’s surface to prevent the accumulation of organic materials on the pond floor.
BioFalls® (biological filter): provide surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize and remove excess nutrients from the water.
Pumps: an efficient circulation system will keep the water moving and provide the necessary oxygen levels for healthy koi fish and plants.
Piping: all of the plumbing and connections to make your pond system flow properly
Rocks and Gravel: provide tremendous surface area for beneficial bacteria to break down excess nutrients in the water and dissolved organic debris on the pond floor. Rocks and gravel also simulate a natural environment for your fish to enjoy.
Pond Liner and Underlayment: all of the waterproofing and protection material to keep your pond holding water and operational as a pond.
Plants: Nature’s true filters, plants are great for adding character to a pond by providing color and texture, but from a filtration perspective, they’re second to none. Thriving from the excess nutrients in a pond and depriving algae of its food source, the aquatic plants in a water garden, given proper coverage, are critical for the overall health of the ecosystem.
Fish: reduce koi pond maintenance as they graze on string algae and bottom feed on the pond floor. Koi also make very enjoyable pets, providing hours of natural entertainment.
All of these components work together to provide you a self-sustaining water garden. When done right, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of running water and beautiful koi fish. Feel the cares of the world slip away as you enjoy your personal backyard pond! You’ll wonder why you waited so long to enhance your yard with a beautiful Superior Ponds water garden!
