article: Roles of Pond Plants

Roles of Water Plants

In addition to oxygenating via photosynthesis, pond plants perform a number of other valuable functions. All types of pond plants have roots through which they absorb a wide range of compounds from the water.

Nitrates
Nitrates, which are among the products of the natural detoxification of, waste material in the pond, if left unchecked they can rise to unacceptable levels. This can harm the health of the fish, but also act as excellent fertilizers for the nuisance algae variety known as blanket weed or green water. Plants take up some of the excess nitrates through their roots as fertilizer. Pond plants perform the valuable role of controlling algae biologically. They absorb substances, which prevent any violent fluctuations in the water.

For Fish
Surface and floating plants also create shade which shelter fish from bright light and predators. It also prevents evaporation from the pond, helps cool the water and act as food for some fish species or for the numerous small organisms that fish feed on. Many types of plants offer fish a variety of spawning sites and provide a natural haven where eggs, fry, and other forms of pond life can develop safely.

Beauty
Plants also bring a flavor to any water garden or pond. They add color and variety and make any water production more beautiful. Plants can bring peacefulness and make your outside water palace even more therapeutic. Not only to they give life to fish and other reptiles that you have in your pond, they add to the life of the pond.