Ammonia Removal Tips

Ammonia is a chemical crucial and used in many commercial products such as cleaning solutions and fertilizers

. However, this compound has been the enemy of many pond owners, since it can cause fatalities of fish and plants.

Ammonia come naturally from fish waste and other decaying materials such fish food and fertilizer. Excess fish food also contributes to ammonia accumulation. The decomposition of those natural materials release ammonia and becomes toxic to fish if its level reaches the extreme.

When Ammonia Become a Problem in Ponds?

Ammonia is dominant during algae crash. Algae crash happens when algae die that produces excess ammonia concentration. The rapid decomposition of dead algae decreases the amount of dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide that may cause fish kills.

Experts blame too much ammonia accumulation from excessive fish feeding. Fish feeds normally contain proteins that produce ammonia when broken down.

Warm seasons, especially during summer, are the best time for the pond to produce ammonia profusely. This is because the unwanted algae are active during this season.

Ammonia Removal Methods

Ammonia can be controlled gradually in various ways. As what has been mentioned excess feeding promotes ammonia concentration; thus it makes sense to reduce the feeding rate to solve this problem. Add feeds that are enough to be consumed by fish. During summer, the maximum feeding rate should be 125 pounds per acre. Reducing the feeding rate can gradually lessen high ammonia level in your ponds.

Next is the use of proper and sufficient aeration. Pond aeration helps diffuse the ammonia gas from pond water to the air. The use of aeration tank is more efficient. Proper aeration helps increase the levels of dissolved oxygen. The higher the dissolved oxygen levels trigger less nitrogen that is the culprit for ammonia.

There are ammonia remover products. Some of these products come in the form of crystal granules, when dissolved absorb toxic ammonia. They are ideal for pond with heavy fish load and this is what Japanese koi keepers has been using centuries ago. On the other hand, Koi Clubs USA recommends the use of pond salt that will lessen ammonia and nitrates.

Another immediate action, or say prevention, is the removal of any falling debris from pond such as leaves, branches, and fertilizer. Those debris release ammonia when decomposed. Thus, keeping your pond clean and free from debris will pay off. Making the pond a bit deeper to about an inch may also reduce the concentration of ammonia in the water.

Although beneficial pond bacteria are often overlooked, they are important addition to your water feature. These bacteria digest the harmful ammonia so they will not wreak havoc in the pond. They also reduce the nutrients needed by algae to grow.

by: Tyra Robertson

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