Question about moss in my pond

[muck]

Last summer, our spring-fed pond had nearly no moss in it (we moved in in July).

 

This spring, it has oodles of moss.

 

We were told by a previous owner that there are a few 'Japanese carp' that are in there that are supposed to be good at cleaning out the moss. If they died (or swam away somehow ... not sure how), any other suggestions for keeping the moss population in check?

[AtomicCEO]

The moss will pout and fake an ankle injury if you trade it to a bad team.

[Puddy]

The moss will pout and fake an ankle injury if you trade it to a bad team.

Damn you.....I was going to go with "I think it's a good idea".

[muck]

This is not helpful.

[Puddy]

This is not helpful.

 

I only exist for smart ass remarks and slow witted responses.

[isleseeya]

hey ...how big is pond ?

 

is it moss or algae ( perhaps string algae ) ?

 

do you have a UV sterilizer hooked up as well ?

[Footballjoe]

I know for small fish ponds you are suppose to put in something to control the algae. Some of it is beneficial though.

[isleseeya]

There are options to help the problem if its algae ...their is algecide but have to be careful ig you have fish in the pond as well

 

Best way is with a uv sterilizer ( a biirt costly ) but very effective at keepinng algae away

[whoopazz]

Moss?, do you mean algae? is it all on the surface or submerged? A piece of laminated hardwood floor might do it....

[darin3]

I don't know what you need to buy to get rid of it, but plan on paying for it with straight cash, homey.

[muck]

Not sure if its moss or algae.

 

Some is floating. Some is submerged. It all looks pretty much the same to me.

 

There are 'tufts' of it floating from the far end to the dam end where we have the overflow spout (which is draining a little extra water).

 

We have a ton of fish in the pond.

[T_bone65]

Santana, Sinorce or Randy

[TimC]

Not sure if its moss or algae.

 

Crumpler was released back in February so I'm thinking it should've cleared up by now.

[T_bone65]

Crumpler was released back in February so I'm thinking it should've cleared up by now.

 

How could I forget about Crumpler

[H8tank]

Geese.

[Perchoutofwater]

Get a mexican and some hip waders.

[Hat Trick]

"Most of the time, the terms 'pond scum' and 'moss' and sometimes 'wool' are nicknames for what is called filamentous or planktonic algae. Filamentous algae, which is comprised of long filaments of single-celled algae, can form dense mats covering a large part of the pond's surface (link to photo of filamentous algae). Other types of algae called planktonic are single algae cells, often times free-swimming that can give the water a green color and/or impart taste or odors to the water. When a huge amount of either filamentous or planktonic algae is present, it is called an 'algae bloom'. Most of the time this is detrimental as rapid die-offs can cause fish suffocation due to oxygen depletion. There are several methods used to control algae. The most common is periodic treatment with a copper-based algaecide such as Cutrine-Plus (link) or Captain (link). Copper sulfate is sometimes used but is more toxic and harder to use. Another method of control is the use of a blue pond dye such as Aquashade that contains a blend of blue and yellow dyes to block out specific light rays critical to photosynthesis. By limiting sunlight penetration into the water, you can limit algae and Josh Gordon growth. A biological water conditioner such as WaterCure is often beneficial as the safe and harmless blend of bacteria can help breakdown pond sludge and reduce excess nutrients from the water. Reduction of these compounds will help clear the water, reduce odors and digest unwanted organic compounds. Aquatic plants planted along the pond margins can also help absorb excess nutrients, one of the main causes of excessive algae. Examples include pickerelweed, arrowhead and bulrush. Many of these also have benefits to wildlife as well. One of the best long term investments is a decorative aerator. These units circulate hundreds of gallons of water per minute, reducing stagnation, adding life-giving oxygen, reducing sludge build-up and riding the pond of excess nutrients. They come in many sizes and configurations. Not only do they provide biological benefits, but also add aesthetic appeal. If you have a deeper pond over 8' and are looking for strictly biological benefits, then a bottom-diffuser system might be best. An on-shore compressor propels millions of air bubbles per minute to the surface from bottom diffusers, adding oxygen to the water and creating vital circulation. The result is less algae, healthier fish, fewer toxic gases, less odor, elimination of stagnation and reduction in bottom sludge. Efforts need to be made to reduce the nutrients coming into the lake or pond if at all possible. Ducks and geese can add tremendously to the nutrient loading and it is sometimes beneficial in more ways than one to limit their use of your pond. There are a number of products that can be used to discourage their presence. You can also reduce fertilizing near the water, and reduce the amount of fish food. Finally, there is a revolutionary new product called Baraclear that not only removes phosphorous, a nutrient that tends to stimulate the growth of algae and weeds, but also helps clear up muddy or cloudy water. If all this information sounds too confusing, just email The Lake Doctors for help with your specific problems and pond. We can suggest products and solutions based upon your pond and your specific needs and budget."

 

http://www.lakedoctors.com

 

That will cost you one Chiefs win

 

I've used the Copper Sulfate, just be careful or you'll have another problem(dead fish). If the pond becomes overrun with the algea then don;t even worry about the fish because they will die off too. Just read this and take what action you deem best for your situation.

[muck]

Thank you.

[yo mama]

Get a mexican and some hip waders.

What would he need the hip waders for?

[Puddy]

What would he need the hip waders for?

To protect the switchblade in his pocket from rusting