Ecosystem Ponds
At Tropical Water Gardens we build our ponds to work with mother nature, not against her. By doing so, we have less pond maintenance, allowing us to enjoy the benefits of the pond instead of having to work on the pond. By building your water feature to perform as an ecosystem, nature is at the heart of the water cycle, not man. As a result, the root systems of pond plants filter the water, natural bacteria breaks down organic matter and pond fish eat the algae. No chemicals, just nature, doing what nature does best.
Here is a short video showing how the Aquascape Ecosystem works
Ecosystem ponds can be easy to understand if you have a good grasp of what components go into a basic, functioning ecosystem:
Here are the Basics:
Filtration System: The use of both a biological and a mechanical filter. A biological filter provides surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize and remove excess nutrients from the water. A mechanical filter will not only pre-filter the water and house the pump; it will also skim debris from the water’s surface (just like a pool skimmer) to prevent the accumulation of organic materials on the pond floor that will eventually turn into sludge.
Rocks, Gravel, and Bacteria: Rocks and gravel will not only make your pond look more natural, they will also protect pond liners from UV light degradation and they provide tremendous surface area for beneficial bacteria to break down excess nutrients in the water and dissolved organic debris on the pond floor.
Circulation System: A fancy way of saying “pumps and plumbing.” The proper size pump and pipe diameter are extremely important for the aesthetics of a water feature. More importantly, an efficient circulation system keeps the water moving and provides the necessary oxygen levels for healthy fish and plants.
Fish: A favorite thing in a pond and an integral part of any ecosystem. Fish are not just amazing to have, they will actually reduce pond maintenance, as they graze on string algae and bottom feed from the pond floor.
Aquatic Plants: Not just beautiful they are nature's true filters. Plants are great for adding character to a pond by providing color and texture, but from a filtration perspective, they’re second to none. Thriving from the excess nutrients in a pond and depriving algae of its food source, the aquatic plants in a water garden, given proper coverage, are critical for the overall health of the ecosystem.
An ecosystem pond works with Mother Nature to provide food, shelter, and safety to the wildlife around it.
It also provides you with an all-natural, low-maintenance piece of paradise. It's important to remember, however, that every piece of the ecosystem puzzle must be present in order for a true ecosystem to be in place. Eliminate one of these elements and you've got an unbalanced ecosystem that won't be so low-maintenance anymore.
How Do All These Elements Work Together?
In order to have a successful water gardening experience, you must think systematically and understand the critical role of each ingredient in Mother Nature's recipe.
- The fish nibble on the plant life (and everything else), including the algae.
- In turn, the fish produce waste that, along with other forms of natural debris, fall to the pond's bottom.
- Debris is broken down by the aerobic bacteria and the other microorganisms colonized on the rocks and gravel all over the pond bottom.
- Once broken down, these substances are absorbed as nutrition by the plants.
- The plants grow and are once again nibbled on by the fish ... 'round and 'round it goes, infinitely.
So, in a naturally balanced water garden, you have this never-ending aquatic circle of life where all parts complement the others, and play critical roles in the pond's natural born harmony.
Having all these things in place makes all the difference in the health and success of your water garden. Use them and work with the wonders of nature, not against them, for a chemical-free wonderland of water! The truth is that most people opt for the ecosystem way of water gardening because it’s easier and it just makes sense.
Tropical Water Gardens Ponds
At Tropical Water Gardens each water garden we create is unique and custom designed just for you. Each one is personalized to enhance and beautify your existing landscape. There's an infinite number of sizes and configurations available. And each Water Garden is custom-tailored for your specific location and budget.
There is nothing as relaxing as having a pond in your back yard. Whether you go with the tranquil scene of a water garden with water lilies and goldfish or you go with the beauty of koi, having a pond in your back yard can be a source of hours of enjoyment.
With the stress of work and long commutes, what better way to wind down than by sitting next to your very own pond. Let the relaxing, soothing sounds of running water ease your mind and take away the tension.
Water gardens enhance your touch with nature. You'll get enjoyment with all of the things it brings with it. Fish, frogs, butterflies, birds, pond plants, and all of the flowers you can plant around it. It really is a nature wonderland when you have one. It's relaxing!
When the sun goes down and the lights come on you enter into a magical wonderland. Everything in the pond is lit up and magnified. It's like a gigantic aquarium. Our koi really come alive at night. We love watching them play and chase each other around. Lights really add a whole new dimension to your pond.
So what are you waiting for!
Call Kathy at Tropical Water Gardens today to set up a consultation!
386-943-8724
Let us create a paradise for you!
