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Getting to Know Phosphates in Pond Water

Posted On : Aug-31-2010 | seen (1545) times | Article Word Count : 509 |

Phosphates are natural compounds that are contained in a certain water feature. Since a natural occurrence, phosphate can reach high levels that cause algae to flourish in ponds. That is why it has to be controlled before it’s too late.
Although not widely known, phosphates are actually present in every aquarium and water pond out there. Every owner of either of the water features mentioned should be aware that if the water system is not properly maintained, the chance for phosphate levels to raise can get higher thus contributing to the rapid development of algae.

The presence of phosphate is but a natural occurrence in almost every water body. Tolerable amounts of phosphates are not detrimental to the life in a certain water feature like a pond. And even if the water contains high amounts of this element, it will not cause any harm to any of the living creatures in the water. Phosphates become a menace to pond owners due to the fact that they trigger algae bloom in the water; which is oftentimes overlooked by pond keeper.

The phosphates that invisibly surmount the pond of yours occur in a natural way. Most of the phosphates are produced by the natural inhabitants of the pond like the fish and the plants. Dying algae, decaying plants, fish wastes and dead fish are among the internal sources of phosphates. But they can also get in the pond from sources outside—falling debris like dried leaves, twigs, dead insects and the air itself contribute to the phosphates that already are in the pond water.

Tolerable amounts of phosphates in the pond do not actually trigger any harm to start in the pond. However, if the levels of this compound reach beyond what is tolerable the pond becomes friendlier to algae. To know how much phosphate is present in your pond, a phosphate test should be done. When test results show levels of 1.0 ppm (or 1.0 mg/L), the conditions become alarming for the pond and favourable for algae. Phosphate levels in 0.05 pmm, or less are considered ideal.

If ever the levels of phosphate in your pond become more than what is tolerable, it is necessary to know the ways on how to reduce the amounts of the said compound. Spending much money is not required. Just as long as you have patience and knowledge of the simplest ways to reduce these compounds, everything is sure to be good.

To avoid having high levels of phosphates in the pond, control should be done in the first place. Changing the water in the pond regularly is the key to prevent the amount of phosphate to reach the alarming level. Regular cleaning of the pond is also indispensable to avoid high levels of phosphate. The filtration system of the pond should be kept clean at all times. The carbon in the filter adds up to the already existing phosphate in the water. Lastly, the water should be treated on a regular basis. Using water conditioners and ph stabilizers can help prevent phosphate from multiplying.

All in all, the key to keep the phosphate levels in pond from going up the pond owner should be responsible enough to do the tasks that needed to be done.

Article Source : http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Getting to Know Phosphates in Pond Water_31274.aspx

Author Resource :
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Keywords : blanket weed treatment, removing phosphate, phosphates in pond,

Category : Reference and Education : Environmental

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