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If
you've got a sense of adventure--and enough room--you
may enjoy the challenge of setting up an outdoor
fish pond. If properly cared for, coldwater species
such as goldfish and koi will thrive in these larger,
more natural living quarters. Whether your pets
will live this good life during the summer months
or, if climate permits, all year round, you'll be
expanding your knowledge as a fish caretaker and
beautifying your backyard.
Fish Pond Heaters May Not Be Necessary for Year-Round Ponds
The
size of your pond will be dictated by how much room
you have and the type and number of species you
wish to keep. Fish can grow very large in a pond,
so your pets' outdoor home should be at least four
yards long; this size can accommodate six common
goldfish. Koi who live outside year round will need
a pond at least 4 1/2 feet deep; goldfish can make
do with two feet. There are many types of ponds
to choose from--including plastic, concrete and
wooden with a plastic liner. Ask at your gardening
or home equipment store what will work best for
you.
Building
your pond in the proper location is of utmost importance
in maintaining the health of your fish. Select an
area away from overhanging trees, as leaves and
other debris can poison the water. The spot should
also receive both sun and shade for part of the
day.
Plants
are an absolute must for your outdoor pond. Not
only do they look great, they'll help reduce the
growth of algae and provide shade and oxygen for
your fish. Put in some rocks for additional shelter
and hiding places, and be sure to line the bottom
of the pond with gravel. If you are keeping koi,
Experts recommend a filtration system for
the pond.
It's
crucial that you wait until the plants have established
themselves and the water has properly aged before
adding the fish. Check with your aquarium store
for advice on achieving and maintaining the proper
water quality for your pond; you may need to add
a conditioner.
Pond Fish Food
You
can purchase fish specifically for your pond, or
transfer larger fish from your indoor aquarium;
ask your aquarist about appropriate coldwater species.
When introducing them into the pond, you will need
to float them in a container, such as a plastic
bag, until the temperature of the water in the bag
is equal to that of the pond. Feed your pets a floating
food that is specifically formulated for fish who
live in ponds. To avoid increased toxins in the
water, use a net to remove any food that remains
uneaten.
It
is highly recommended that you regularly change
a percentage of the water in your pond. Check with
your aquarium shop about the frequency recommended
for your particular set-up. To learn more about
the importance of water changes, please read our
topic entitled "Cleaning the Tank."
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