The following is a brief description of some common water quality problems and the tests that you should routinely make of your pond’s water. Remember, water quality is the #1 killer of your wet pets.

pH - is the measure of acidity or alkalinity. Koi and Goldfish can live in a wide range of pH, but 7 to 8 is best. You can raise pH with baking soda. Do not attempt to lower pH without expert help.

Ammonia - is a deadly toxin to fish. It comes from fish waste, decaying food and plant material or unseen dead fish. It is best treated through the use of a bio-filter. The only acceptable level of ammonia is ZERO!!. If your ammonia is high, treat with water changes and reduced feeding.

Nitrite - is detrimental to fish. It comes from the breakdown of ammonia in the bio-filter. The amount of nitrite in your pons should stay below .25 PPM. To treat higher levels, make water changes and clean you filters and pond bottom to cut down on mulm and dirt.

Nitrate - is the last step in the ammonia cycle. Your plants use nitrate as a fertilizer. If nitrate levels get too high , 40 PPM, they can induce a pea-soup algae bloom.

Total Alkalinity - measures the bicarbonate ions in your water. Liner ponds can have dangerously low total alkalinity. Testing should read 80-120 PPM on a dip stick test or around 4-8 DH (4-8 drops of reagent) on the Tetra KH test. You can raise total alkalinity with baking soda.