Is Bacteria Actually Good For My Pond? Yes And Here Is Why

​Too often, when people hear the word bacteria, they imagine something that you need to get rid of. While it is true that some bacteria can make you sick, there are many types that are beneficial, or even necessary. When you have a pond or other large body of water, bacteria help keep the water healthy.

What You Should Know About Bacteria in Ponds
A pond, like any ecosystem, is constantly changing. The cycle of birth and death, for both plants and animals, is an important part of the lifecycle of the pond. Bacteria are vital for this process. They play a key role in breaking down organic matter. Without bacteria's help, the decomposition period would be much slower, which would have an adverse effect on water quality.

Working with pond management companies in Florida is a good way to ensure your pond has the correct balance of bacteria.

What can you expect from a healthy pond?
Fewer algae blooms- Algae blooms are, unfortunately, part of living in Florida. Algae blooms pull oxygen from the water and block out sunlight. Both of these factors lead to the death of aquatic life.

Slower plant growth- Not only do the correct bacteria levels in your pond keep algae levels low, but it also slows the growth of underwater plants. While some vegetation is nice, the growth can easily get out of hand if the soil is too rich in nutrients. Good bacteria work to digest sediment and lower the nutrient load of your pond.

Healthier soil- The bacteria work hard to convert decaying matter, fallen leaves, and other organic materials, into nutrients.

Clear water- Good bacteria keep the oxygen levels in the water at a healthy level, which in turn keeps the water clear.

Sweet, odor-free water- Nobody likes the smell of stagnant water. Keeping bacteria levels at a healthy level helps balance the ecosystem in your pond. This allows the water to remain odor-free throughout the year.

Maintaining Your Pond
Keeping your pond healthy doesn't have to be complicated. Pond management companies in Florida are experts at balancing the bacteria levels as well as providing other maintenance services.

While many landowners hope to perform maintenance on their ponds on their own, the process is complicated and best left to the experts. Adding beneficial bacteria to your pond requires that you know what is currently lacking in the water and how to bring the levels up to where they should be for clear, clean water.

Working with a professional allows you to apply the right amount of product when it is needed. Each pond has different requirements, depending on the inflow rate, size, and time of year.

Other considerations, such as whether the pond has an aeration system, are also important. Adding an aeration system, such as a floating fountain, can help the bacteria work more economically.

If you are struggling with your pond, or have in the past, the addition of beneficial bacteria may be just what you need.