What Type of Pond Fish Eat Algae?

Fish keepers have various ways to prevent algae growth from getting out of hand in their ponds. Some methods are mechanical while others are chemical, but many aquarists prefer to go with more natural and organic methods. Japanese aquarists are known to favor organic algae growth control, which involves the introduction of certain species, because this method promotes the development of a healthier ecosystem. With the right balance of plankton, plants, mollusks, crustaceans, and fish, algae bloom can be kept to a minimum. Moreover, the pond will require less maintenance thanks to the diversity of biological processes. With this in mind, the staff at Aquatic Warehouse, a trusted provider of koi pond supplies, suggest some fish species you may want to add to your koi pond.

Chinese Algae Eater

This bottom feeder is sometimes referred to as “sucker fish” because of the shape and functionality of its mouth. Gyrinocheilus aymonieri can grow up to 10 inches. They’re known to be territorial, so they may not be the best choice in smaller ponds. To compensate for the territorial nature of algae eaters, it’s better to get them into your pond while they’re still juveniles and before they reach adult size.

Grass Carp

This species is extensively used in aquaculture farming for controlling excessive aquatic weeds. Keeping Ctenopharyngodon idella in a pond requires rooted plants, and you won’t want to introduce more than two because they may end up eating vegetation faster than it can grow back. The ideal pond ecosystem for grass carp will have plants that take root in the substrate and don’t grow very tall.

Gambezi Mosquitofish

Highly recommended for backyard ponds that attract mosquitoes, Gambusia affinis are small and hardy species that eat all kinds of insects in a pond. When mosquitofish aren’t able to find larvae or bugs to devour, they consume plankton and algae. Even though mosquitofish reproduce frequently, pond keepers won’t have to worry about overstocking because the larger koi will feast on the fry and juveniles. Survivors are pretty good at hiding and escaping larger fish, but you’ll need to provide rocks.

Plecostomus

This fish is the ultimate cleaner of ponds and aquarium tanks around the world. It’s a distant cousin of the edible catfish, and it tends to adjust its growth to the size of the habitat. A juvenile Plecostomus won’t grow large in an aquarium, but it can stretch to 24 inches. Some aquarists who have both tanks and ponds will transfer plecos from one habitat to another when temperatures drop because this tropical species may not survive in water that’s less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Since plecos are mostly nocturnal, they’ll appreciate having good places to hide in the pond. As a voracious eater, the Plecostomus is known to produce a lot of waste, but this is good news for planted substrates because aquatic plant species will appreciate the fertilizer.

Whatever fish you keep in your pond, you need all of the necessary supplies to maintain the pond and keep all of your species happy and healthy. From koi pond filters and vacuums to nutritious food and pond lighting, Aquatic Warehouse has everything you need. Check out our website to see what we have to offer, and give us a call at 858-467-9297 if you have any questions.