Too much tapwater, High pH-value and Algal blooms:

PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION

What has happened?

Especially in the first few months after refilling a pond, increased algae growth occurs parallel to poor plant growth. The plant variety, particularly that of underwater plants and floating plants is missing or has not yet fully established itself. Missing trace elements (iron, calcium) lead to a yellow colouring of the pond plants and a high pH-value causes increased development of 'slimy' and short thread algae as well as 'blue/green' algae. Rising lack of carbonic acid, caused by the algae, increases the pH-value further.

What can happen?

Plant growth declines whilst algae growth increases, suffocating the remaining plants. A pH-value higher than 8.6 stops the respiration process of the plants; a further rise of the pH-value could cause fish to die due to ammonia poisoning.

What can be done?

After every refilling of the pond, after every change of water and after continuous rainfalls, "Aqua Humin" should be used for water treatment. In a very gentle way this purely biological product reduces the pH-value and allows the plants to breathe again.

Beware! If fish gasp for breathe in the evening, test the pH-value. A pH-value above 9.0 threatens the life of the fish by ammonia poisoning. You need to lower the level of the pH-value carefully by 1/2 unit (0.5 pH) per day up to a medium level of 8.5 to 8.0 by applying "pH-value minus".

Will the algae stay away permanently?

Even using the most advanced filtration techniques and biological additives, it is almost impossible to eradicate string algae completely. Small bodies of water in particular are generally always in a state of imbalance due to uncontrollable temperature changes and fluctuating pollutents.

Tip: New "Aqua Humin" should be purchased after 2-3 months to ensure the pond remains healthy and balanced.