Ecosystem Ponds
SERVICEs
What are the elements of an Ecosystem Pond?
An ecosystem pond works because every part of it plays a key role. The filtration, plants, rock/gravel and fish all support each other to keep the water clear, healthy and naturally balanced. Here’s how each element contributes. On larger projects, more complex systems are used where the volume of water exceeds a certain size but the principles are very similar. The below is typical of our small to medium sized ponds.
Filtration
Ecosystem ponds use two main filtration stages. Together they remove debris, break down excess nutrients and create stable, healthy water.
Skimmer | Mechanical Filtration
The skimmer is the first point of filtration. It houses the pump and uses surface tension to pull water across the surface, collecting leaves and floating debris before they sink, decompose and cause problems. Larger debris such as leaves, are caught in a skimmer basket, which makes cleaning quick and simple. The water passes through the basket and one layer of filter matting before entering the pump and plumbing.
BioFalls | Biological Filtration
After the skimmer, the water flows into the BioFalls via flexible PVC pipework. Inside, beneficial bacteria break down the excess nutrients that cause algae blooms and fish health issues. This biological filter is what keeps the water naturally clear and balanced throughout the year.
Circulation
Good circulation keeps the whole pond healthy.
Careful consideration is given during the design stage as to the required flow rates to ensure the water is turned over regularly enough to be filtered correctly. The pumps sit safely housed inside the skimmer box, which reduces the chance of blockages, makes maintenance easier and improves reliability. Each project is designed with the correct flow rate to match the size and shape of the pond. As the water returns over the BioFalls, it becomes oxygenated, which is essential for koi, aquatic plants and the overall health of the ecosystem.
Rocks and Gravel
Rocks and gravel do far more than improve the look of the pond.
They protect the liner from UV damage and create a natural, textured finish. Most importantly, they provide a huge surface area for beneficial bacteria to live on. These bacteria help remove excess nutrients and are a major reason ecosystem ponds stay clear. Another benefit is that it gives the pond a natural look, resembling river rock in a natural river or stream.
Plants
Plants are the real workhorses of these ecosystem ponds.
They remove nitrogen and phosphorus, which are the main triggers for algae blooms. Planting alone may not be enough on larger features, so a wetland filter is added to support the ecosystem. These act as the kidneys of the pond, providing crystal clear perfectly filtered water.
The water passes through layers of rock of various sizes, slowing the flow rate down which aids the filtration process. The wetland is then planted up with various plants perfect for filtering the water that passes over them and back into the pond.
The plants also add shape, movement and colour. They soften the rockwork, create a more natural look and offer shelter for wildlife such as fry, insects and amphibians.
Wildlife
Wildlife is a natural part of any well-built ecosystem pond.
Within no time at all you can typically expect frogs, newts, dragonflies, birds and a variety of insects to appear. We have built ponds in the past that have had birds and frogs appear during installation whilst filling them up. This creates a lively, balanced environment that changes with the seasons.
You can also introduce fish. Koi and other species help graze on algae, improve water clarity and bring colour and personality to the pond. They quickly become part of the garden’s character.
Designed and Built by Experienced Specialists
Ecosystem Pond building and rock placement is artwork. We design features that work with nature, offering food, shelter and safe areas for wildlife while giving you a calming, visually striking focal point. Moving water attracts birds and encourages insects to thrive. No two ponds are the same. Each one is unique with no other like it, even if constructed using the same type of stone. The rockwork and planting etc won’t be the same as any other pond anywhere else in the world, a unique selling point for our bespoke Ecosystem ponds.
Enjoy Your Pond All Year
Our ecosystem ponds are built to be low-maintenance and enjoyable in every season. Once established, they only require occasional maintenance (available through ourselves, see pond maintenance section), letting you relax and watch the pond grow and evolve. Periodic maintenance is still required though to keep it looking like it did when it was first built. We provide routine maintenance packages to suit every pond we install.