Aeration is the term that we use to mean the adding of air (oxygen) to the water. Since Air contains 22% oxygen, aeration adds oxygen to the pond's water. There are a number of very essential pieces of equipment to consider when planning a pond, none more so than a good quality reliable air pump.

So Why Aerate a Koi Pond?

A koi pond is more than a hole in the ground with a liner and some water. In order to have a healthy, dynamic pond environment you wil also need a biological filter, a source of aeration, a circulation pump and adequate space or volume of water for the intended fishing stocks you are hoping to keep. The filtration system purifies the water of waste, bacteria and other toxins. An air pump provides vital oxygen to the water that all fish and aquatic life need to survive. Adding oxygen to the water will also help stop the pond's water from stagnating. The pump moves the water through the filter and aerator. This recirculatuion cycle is the lifeblood of a pond. The biggest secret to keeping a successful pond is good filtration, healthy fish and plenty of oxygen. We all survive on this on this earth  because we can breathe oxygen, fish and all aquatic life require oxygen to survive also. In addition, all the nitrifying bacteria that keep the pond water free of toxins harmful to fish require good levels of oxygen to survive and flourish.

Where is the best place to add oxygen to your pond system?

Directly in to the pond's water or the pond's biofilter system ensuring that not only the ponds' water is oxygenated but also the nitrifying bacteria  receive a good supply. Many pond periferals these days are designed to facilitate the oxygenation of pond water, such as aerated bottom drains, filter systems, prefilters and waterfalls.

How much air should you add to your koi pond?

Add as much air as you can using air pumps, air stones and aerated bottom drains to distribute the air, the higher the stocking levels of fish the more air should be added. You can add the air directly into the pond, filter system, a waterfall and anywhere else you can think of. In a normal environment, with normal stocking levels, and as a general rule of thumb 40lpm of air should be added per 1000 gallons of pond water. All ponds will vary and the oxygen levels and health of the fish should be monitored at all times.

Additional points to take in to consideration are that the amount of oxygen water can hold is also dependent upon other external factors such as atmospheric pressure, salinity and temperature. Water can and does hold less oxygen at higher altitudes. Salinity of the pond's water also reduces the ability for the water to hold oxygen, so if you are using salt in a koi or fish pond to aid in the medical treatment of your fish this also needs to be taken into consideration, however the most inportant factor is the water temperature. As the water temperature increases the less oxygen will be retained in the water.

Most oxygenation problems occur from June through September, the reasons for this are:

• Water can hold less oxygen as temperatures rise.
• Respiration rates of both fish and aquatic life increase with the warmer water, so more oxygen is used.
• Summer's still hazy or cloudy days may reduce the amount of oxygen produced.
• Large amounts of feed given to fish at this time of year as they are more active results in large quantities of waste being produced which create a larger demand for oxygen.

Here at Dankoi we carry a large selection of air pumps, airstones and fittings to facilitate good oxygenation of a pond and ensure the heath of your fish. If unsure about anything please contact us via our contacts page or call us to discuss your requirements.