Ecosystem Ponds

The koi ponds & watergardens we construct for our clients rely on an ecologically sound, organic, naturally balanced ecosystem to stay clean and clear without the use of such unnatural ‘cures’ as pond chemicals and UV radiation sterilizers. Very simply, the beneficial bacteria that colonize the filters, rocks, and gravel of the pond break down fish waste and other organic materials and turn the harmful ammonia into ammonium nitrate, which is plant fertilizer.

The aquatic plants, installed directly into the gravel substrate take in these free-floating nutrients, helping to starve algae, which wants the same nutrients, out of the system. The fish, in turn, graze the thin layer of algae that does try to grow on the rocks as well as any other organic material that may find its way into the pond. Once the ecosystem is established and balanced, you don’t need to feed the fish or fertilize the plants. The system is nearly self-maintaining.