Pond Algae- The Primitive Green Growth still Thrives in Ponds Today

February 19, 2009 by PA

Pond algae sometimes get a bad rap, especially from backyard pond owners who don’t particularly appreciate its aesthetic effect. It often appears in the form of a green scum covering the surface of the water. Pond owners may go to great lengths to prevent the growth of algae. And indeed, algae blooms can create certain problems for fish or an underwater garden, so some degree of control may be necessary. However, pond algae are also part of the natural balance of things. A walk in the woods may reveal that algae is one of the hardiest life forms found in nature, and can often co-exist nicely with other organisms.

Algae are one of the most primitive life-forms known to man. They have been around for millions of years, and though these ‘plants’ are considered simple, their relationship to nature in general is remarkable. Though they are virtually overlooked as distinctive organisms, when examined in closer detail they reveal a lot about ecology and nature. There is some disagreement in the scientific community as to the classification of algae. While most everyone thinks of algae as a simple type of plant, they actually lack some major characteristics which distinguish plants from other organisms. Namely, they do not bear leaves, roots, and organs which are found in a true member of the plant family. What they share in common with plants is that they photosynthesize, or convert the sun’s energy into food. However, even some bacteria have this ability, so calling an organism a ‘plant’ based solely on this ability would be erroneous. In reality, algae have a completely different mechanism for photosynthesizing than plants do, which is one thing that makes them so fascinating to study.

To try to eliminate algae entirely from a body of water would be a mistake. Algae are the beginning of a very important food chain. For example, phytoplankton, a type of marine algae, are a major food source for many types of marine life. Planktonic algae are another type that provides nutrients for aquatic life. They are indispensable to nature, and should be treated with a certain degree of respect for the balance that they provide.

Algae take on different forms and appearances. Filamentous algae (sometimes referred to as ‘string’ or ‘horsehair’ algae) appear like long, thin filaments or hairs. Hundreds or thousands of them may intertwine, and the result is ‘blanket weed’, or the appearance of a green blanket on the surface of water, particularly around the edges and covering rocks. It may also take on the appearance of thousands of tiny little buds which float on the water’s surface, almost like a solid covering. This usually causes the water to look green or blue-green in color. There are actually thousands of different species of algae, each with distinct scientific names and characteristics. It is often difficult to identify a particular strain of algae. For the typical backyard pond owner though, it isn’t always necessary to be able to identify the organism that inhabits your pond.

Since algae are a critical part of the food chain, it’s not recommended that you routinely treat your pond with a chemical to kill algae. However, if algae blooms develop, they can choke out plant and animal life and may need to be dealt with. It isn’t always necessary to use chemical algaecides either. There are many natural methods that can be employed which are sometimes cheaper. Ducks even eat some types of algae, and constitute a harmless, eco-friendly way to clean your pond. The best method is to control the growth of algae, rather than have to treat the blooms that eventually appear.

Your local garden or pond supplies store can be an excellent resource for information on algae specific to your pond or region. The Internet is also rife with articles on how to treat pond algae problems in your backyard pond.

Share and Enjoy With Other Pond Owners: