If you have noticed that your pond fish are dying after rain, it is a good idea to take a close look at the reasons behind the phenomenon. You may have more than one species of fish, or the water quality might be at fault. There are a number of things you can do to keep your pond fish happy and healthy.
It’s not uncommon for ponds to experience fish kills. The most common cause of mass die-offs is a lack of oxygen. You can also have a fish that is too old to survive the changes in its surroundings. If you have an aging Cotoneaster bush, your pond fish might be affected by the plant.
It’s also a good idea to check the pH level of the water. The pond’s pH can change throughout the day. Aerators can be used to keep the dissolved oxygen levels at a steady state. If the water is too acidic, a waterfall or a circulating pump can help.
The most important thing to remember when trying to figure out why your pond fish are dying after rain is to find out what caused the problem in the first place. This is usually a combination of factors, but if you can, try to pinpoint the most common culprit. If you have a pond, you may want to move it to a higher elevation on your property. You could also set up a drainage system or run-off system to help get rid of the extra water. If you can’t do those things, you might need to install fencing to prevent the pond’s inhabitants from being washed out by heavy rainfall.
You can also have a problem with excess nutrients. This can lead to nuisance algae formation and the buildup of harmful microorganisms. If the pond is in a heavily industrialized area, you might be surrounded by a lot of pollutants. You should make sure you test the water to determine the pH levels, as well as the water’s temperature and density.
Using a fountain is also a popular pond management tool. However, this type of gadget might not be the best option. A more practical solution is to install a drainage system that allows the pond water to be directed away from the area where the fountain is installed. This will minimize the chance that it might get clogged with leaves and other debris. If you do decide to have a fountain, it might be wise to choose a high-quality model that will last for a long time.
A rainy day is not a good time to visit a pond. The sudden drop in temperature can cause your pond’s inhabitants to suffocate or even die. If you are planning a trip to the area, be sure to bring along a bottle of water to ensure that you don’t accidentally drink any of the toxic chemicals found in runoff. The best time to have a pond is in the spring, so don’t worry if you’re too busy to maintain the pond during heavy rainfall.
