[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Acknowledgments
Producing a book of this type relies on the skills of many people, and I have been fortunate to be working with two very talented teams at cobalt id and Dorling Kindersley.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Introduction to Pond Fish – What to consider
Safety should be a prime consideration when designing a pond that may be visited by children. A raised pond is a safer option than one at ground level, and there are rigid wire grilles that can be securely fastened over the top of the pond. Even with these measures, however, children should always be supervised near the pond.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Introduction to Pond Fish – Setting up the pond – Plants and landscaping
In addition to enhancing the look of a pond, plants help to maintain water quality, providing a healthy environment for the fish. The choice of plants will partly depend on the style of pond—a naturalistic pond looks best when heavily planted around the edges so that it blends seamlessly into its environment, while a contemporary look may be best achieved with more minimalist planting.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Introduction to Pond Fish – Setting up the pond – Coldwater fish in home
Many coldwater fish can be kept indoors in aquariums; indeed, some of the smaller, less colorful species are more visible there than in a pond. Even larger species, such as koi and sterlets, may be housed in a tank when small, but they must be moved outdoors when they outgrow their surroundings. Some coldwater fish cannot survive the winter in a pond, especially in temperate areas, and must be housed indoors until spring.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Introduction to Pond Fish – Maintenance – Pond management
Ponds need regular maintenance if they are to provide fish with a healthy and safe environment. Problems are most likely to arise in the first year, before the pond is established, and are typically caused by overfeeding or overstocking. Frequent monitoring and an awareness of seasonal changes will help avoid the major pitfalls.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Directory of Pond Fish – Other coldwater fish
In addition to goldfish and koi, many other fish from a wide range of families thrive in coldwater ponds, from small, colorful species, such as this Red Shiner (see also p.361), to prehistoric-looking sturgeon. However, the keeping of coldwater fish has raised environmental concerns, principally that imported exotic species may escape into the wild and endanger populations of native fish. As a result, there are legal restrictions on the sale and movement of some species. Dealers should be familiar with these laws, but you can check with the US Department of Agriculture (or, in Canada, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans) for up-to-date regulations.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Directory of Pond Plants – Marginal plants
These plants are more decorative than functional. However, when planted in containers on the marginal shelf—the ledge around the inside of preformed ponds, about 12 in (30 cm) below the surface—they can provide retreats for young fish. Marginals can also be grown as edging plants, giving the pond a more informal look and creating a barrier that makes it more difficult for predators to reach the fish. Some marginals trail down into the water, which helps to hide the perimeter from view. All the plants featured here are suitable for temperate climates, but some will benefit from protection in winter.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Directory of Pond Plants – Floating plants
These plants are not renowned for their flowers, but they give the pond a more natural feel and are important for the well-being of the fish. They spread to form a dense mass, protecting the fish from predators, especially birds, and also from sunburn, in addition to curbing algal growth. Furthermore, they provide spawning sites and food for some species of fish. Floating plants are easy to establish—simply let them drift on the surface until they find a suitable position—and they develop much faster in a new pond than other types of plants, such as marginals and water lilies. Some popular varieties originate from warm climates and are not hardy in temperate areas. They should be brought inside to protect them from winter frosts.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – Directory of Pond Plants – Water Lilies and Lotuses
Water lilies are among the most attractive of all pond plants and relatively easy to keep. They help to maintain the water quality in the pond, because their roots absorb nitrates produced by the decomposition of fish feces. A mat of lily leaves on the pond’s surface will reduce the amount of sunlight entering the water, protecting the fish from sunburn and restricting algal growth. It will also enable the fish to dart out of sight when a predator’s shadow darkens the pond. Do not plant tropical lilies in water that is below 75°F (24°C); otherwise, they may not grow but simply remain dormant or even rot.