Outdoor fountains create a peaceful and relaxing environment while adding to the general aesthetic of the whole garden. Ornamental fountains attract not only various wildlife forms such as frogs, bird, and butterflies but also benefits nearby plants and trees. However, are these beneficial fountains ideal for Koi fish, and do changes need to be made to foresee a suitable environment?
Koi fish can live in a fountain if the water conditions are healthy and the pollutants are monitored. In addition, the natural fall and flow of water from the fountain aerates the water, which helps plants flourish and decreases algae growth.
So, the fountain itself is not the discerning factor regarding the livability of the environment or overall koi health but rather the condition of the water. Koi fish, in general, are pretty hardy, allowing them to survive in different environments under various conditions; however, it’s vital to know the ideal conditions for Koi fish in a fountain.
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What Should Be The Ideal Water Conditions Of A Fountain?
Fountains can be an excellent environment for koi fish as long as the condition of the water itself is kept healthy. Routine testing is required to keep the living conditions ideal; therefore, we should look at what’s important to monitor frequently:
- A toxic chemical known as ammonia gets released through the protein of unfinished fish food and natural excretes, making it common; however, levels should be zero.
- Nitrites, a form of dissolved nitrogen, are a byproduct of ammonia; when nitrifying bacteria, bacteria which gets its energy from the oxidation of inorganic compounds, processes ammonia. Similar to ammonia, levels should be zero.
- Nitrate also forms during the same process but only during the final stage of the nitrogen cycle. Although it is not as harmful as nitrites, levels should be under 60 ppm.
- Oxygen content should be higher than eight mg/l and be constantly maintained. Low oxygen levels cause fish to become more prone to diseases and hinder natural filtration.
- Maintaining pH levels is vital for the overall health of the fish as it measures the acidity and alkalinity of the water. For koi, levels between 6.8 and 7.2 are ideal.
- Using pond salt can benefit koi fish, but salinity levels should be approximately 0.1%.
- Finally, water temperature affects the ability of koi fish to digest food. Therefore, the fountain’s location is also essential to consider as different seasons will have altering effects. It’s important to note that water temperatures that are not ideal deprive the fountain of proper oxygen levels.
As a result, fountains can be ideal for koi fish if the factors mentioned above are well sought after.
Tips For Maintaining A Healthy Fountain Environment
Granted that the water conditions should be kept ideal, there are tips and tricks to adhere to that will ensure the continued health of the koi fish. Let’s look at a few examples which will aid all koi owners:
- Ensure that the temperature of the fountain is between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit before exposing the Koi to the water. Water that is freezing cold or burning hot will increase the risk of exposure to various illnesses. During seasonal changes, a heater will suffice in keeping the temperature between the ideal ranges.
- Remember that chlorine is harmful to koi fish and occurs naturally in different water sources. Better be safe than sorry and purchase products that will aid in removing chlorine from the water.
- Ideally, the fountain should be equipped with a pump and filter. The continuous water flowing through the pump will ensure a cleaner and clearer fountain. Add a proper filter with cleaning options of your choice, and you’ll be able to maintain healthy conditions while decreasing algae growth.
- Preferably, it would be wise to create an easy-access area to remove the contaminant from the filter so that it can be done weekly.
- Ideally, you should not use dye or coloring to make the fountain water appear different from what it is. Oil-based water dye can cause illness among koi fish.
- Besides installing equipment to keep the fountain clean, a heavy-duty thick sponge free from any chemicals will help remove algae build-up from the fountain’s walls.
- Finally, if you don’t mind adding a member to the fountain that’s not directly KoiKoi related, catfish are well known for eating and clearing up algae and droppings. Adding a few catfish will decrease the cloudiness in the fountain due to their natural inclination to clean.
What Are The Benefits Of Fountains For Koi Fish?
Not only can a fountain be an ideal environment for koi fish, but the fountain itself foresees various benefits that aid koi fish and other living organisms like plants. The following are a few benefits the fountains bring to the table of Koi owning and breeding:
Firstly, a fountain creates a natural water flow which is beneficial for improving the overall quality of the water. A fountain aerates the water, which results in reduced algae growth and accumulation of bottom sediments. If the water has low oxygen levels, organic matter decomposes much slower, increasing bottom sediments’ build-up.
Therefore, aeration of the water hinders the accumulation of organic sediments, which means the pool will stay clearer and cleaner for longer. In addition, as the fountain causes a flow, the build-up of hydrogen sulfide gas is also reduced, removing foul odors.
Finally, a fountain enhances the habitat of all the species involved. Improved oxygen levels at the top and bottom of the fountain create a habitat where all the organisms can thrive. Due to the aeration process, the ecosystem is enhanced, resulting in all organisms being healthier.
Not only do fountains enhance the habitat, but it also aids in preventing mosquito activity. Fountains cause a constant flow in the water, which hinders the ability of mosquitos to lay eggs as they require still water for them to develop.
Conclusion
A Fountain provides various benefits that enhance the habitat of all living organisms. Koi fish can thrive in a fountain if the water is maintained and the conditions are healthy. However, the water should still be tested to ensure it’s ideal for the koi fish as they require a specific water quality.
References
https://www.liveaquaria.com/article/256/?aid=256
https://weedersdigest.com/the-benefits-of-having-a-lake-or-pond-fountain/
