Question: Propagating tropical water lilies?

Viviparous (vip's) starts grow easily in conditions that they like. No special equipment is required, 70-80 degree water, fair to good light.

Once the vip's have formed roots and shoots, they are independent plants and will continue to develop as long as conditions remain favorable.

Question: Where would I find the clay soil for repotting my water lilies?

Some people feel that the unsented kitty liter is the best for water lilies because it is normally clay based. Where ever you can find unsented kitty liter that is clay based is the best comment on where to find it.

Two of our members has cited a red 25 pound bag at Wal-Mart as the cheapest and manageable.

Two other members have cited sand from the building and garden departments of Home Depot and Lowes. They add some of their own top soil.

One member cited "pond plant soil", which looks suspiciously like sand, at Summer Winds Nursery.

Question: What elephant's ear can I plant and where?

There are three genuses of plants known as elephant's ear. alocasia, colocasia, and xanthisoma colocasia.

Alocasia is the taro that is grown in standing water all over the Pacific as food. There are many cultivars that are popular ornamentals for ponds and bogs. Many have dark purple or almost black leaves. Alocasia will grow in moist soil as well as standing water.

Colocasia is the genus of the Giant elephants'ear and 'african mask' grown as a house plant. It is native to Central and South America. Colocasia will rot in water. So no standing water.

Xanthisoma colocasia like to be in water up to 6 in. But, xanthisoma must dry out a little every once in a while, just not bone dry.

A regular fertilizing every month is good during the growing season. A balanced, 20-20-20, fertilizer or water-soluble kind such as Miracle Grow or Peters is fine.

Question: How can I prevent algae growth?

It is a common question. Algae spores are everywhere and if you have water, warmth, sunlight, and nutrients, you will grow algae. The trick is to starve the algae of light or nutrients. Shading the pond can be the easiest. Another deterent is UV light filter.

Question: Barley straw for algae control?

The process of the barley straw decomposition is temperature dependent. It takes the straw longer to rot in lower water temps in turn causing it to take longer for it to become active.

Definition of year round pond operation is dependent on the climate.

Putting barley in my pond could start as early as mid-March or April, depending how early spring decides to arrive. And as late as July or August, again dependent on how long the first batch of barley lasts. That would be my definition of year round. In warmer climates a year could be close to even steven, adding barley every six months or so.

Centre For Ecology & Hydrology "Control of Algae wiht Barley Straw" Report

Question: Can I introducing pests and diseases to my plants?

The answer is YES, unless you make preparations to disinfect any new plant before adding it into your water garden.

Two methods are: potassium permanganate (pp) crystals dissolved at the rate of about 1 tablespoon per 2 gallons of water is an effective disinfectant. Soak plants in this pp solution for a couple of hours. Also soak the leaves (no roots) in a vinegar solution of about 10 mil per 10 liters of water.

Question: What are some oxygenating plants?

A few are: Hornwort, Water Thyme, Parrot Feather, and Mares Tail.

The "Hughes Water Garden" link describing oxygenating plants

Question: What are some floating plants?

A few are: Water Lettuce, Water Soldier, Floating Fern, Duckweed, Azolla, fairy moss. A popular plant, Water Hyacinth, is illegal to sell or ship into Arizona.

The "Pond Mega Store" link describing floating plants

Question: Plant feeding in the fall or winter months?  

Stop feeding aquatic plants about a month before the first frost in your area. Even some areas of the southwest do not have frost. Plants grow slower or go dormant in the shorter, cooler days of the fall and winter months.

Question: Where is the best place for my tropical marginal plants?  

You should place them in shallow areas of the pond. Some ponds are built with a plant shelf at around 12" deep specifically for placing shallow-water plants.

Another location could be a shallow area of a bog filter.

Question: How often should I fertilize the aquatic plants in my water garden?

You will want to fertilize your aquatic plants during the growing season starting in the Spring and fertilize monthly through the end of the summer, especially lilies. It is wise to use fertilizing tablets versus liquid fertilizers. Liquids fertilize the entire water garden, to include algae. You can construct a tablet insertion probe out of PVC pipes -- a smaller pipe inside the other pushing the tablet into the plant's dirt/pot. Cut larger pipe on angle to make it sharper.

Question: Can I have too many plants in my pond?

Yes and No. Or better said -- it depends. Water surface area is reduced by floating plants, e.g., lillies. Off gassing depends on surface area. Likewise, plants at night respirate, using oxygen to produce CO2. So depending on the number and size of your fish, the CO2 increase and lack of O2 may kill larger fish. Increasing waterfalls, stream beds, fountain, and/or trickle filters will increase water air surface area.

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Question: What are pond liners?  

There are many kinds of pond liners. If we understand what a liner does for us it may help in the discussion. A liner is a material that helps in the trapping and retaining of water in a location. In our case ponds and water features.

There are natural and man made liners.

Natural liners appear in ponds, rivers, streams, etc. One such type is clay. Certain types of stone are impervious to water and other types of stone are not.

Manmade liners can be flexible or ridgid.

Common to flexible liners are EPDM rubber (ethylene propylene diene Monomer (M-class) rubber) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

EPDM is available in two thicknesses:
45 Mil Liners, For reflecting ponds, Koi ponds, or residential applications.
60 Mil Liners, For public parks, schools, public gardens, landfill, water canals, under ground foundation protection, reservoirs, lakes, and basements.

PVC Liners can be in separate types. Industrial and "Fish Safe." Some industrial pvc may be dangerous for aquatic creatures like fish. If you want to use a pvc liner, please ensure it is "fish safe" and has Ultra-Violate (UV) Light protection. Check the manufacturing location of your pvc liner. United States and Canada are normally the best. It is reported that China has produced pvc liners with chemicals added or removed that may be harmful to your fish.

Manmade flexible liners are best placed over some type of underlayment. Sand, newspapers, or geotextile fabric are known to be used. Geotextile fabric of eight(8) ounce thickness will protect EPDM and PVC from protruding rocks, sticks or other material in the ground.

Common to ridgid liners are fiberglass, metal, or concrete.

These may be preformed or cast in place. Typical concrete liners have some sort of additional lining. This may be on the external dirt or interior water side of the concrete. Your webmaster has seen concrete poured over EPDM. I have seen the swimming pool type of "pebble tech" applied to the inside or some very special coatings placed on the inside of concrete ponds.

Question: What size of pond liner do I need to purchase for my pond?  

While ponds may have various shapes, liners are sold in basic square or retangular shapes. So first you need to establish the overall square or retangle to put your pond inside with a length and width. Next the depth of your pond has to be considered. You must go down one side and up the other side, therefore you have to add twice your depth to both the length and the width. Finally you need to have some additional liner beyond the edge of your pond. Typically you add one (1) foot to all four sides. In other words two (feet) needs to be added to the length and the width.

Example: If you basic shape is a retangle that is 10 feet wide by 20 feet long and you wish your pond to be four (4) feet deep, you would need --
10 + 4 + 4 + 1 + 1 = 20 feet wide
20 + 4 + 4 + 1 + 1 = 30 feet long
or a liner that is 20' X 30'

Question: How do I calculate the number of gallons of water are in my pond?  

In this question we are only dealing with the pond itself. The total gallons of a system includes the pond, pipes, pumps and filters. That kind of total volumn is necessary to calculate dosages for medications for sick fish or systems.

A pond can be an easy or very difficult computation -- depending on the exact shape and depth of the pond. You have to first determine the area of the surface in square feet. Next you calculate the cubic feet based on the depth.

What if my pond varies in depth?

This depends on how it varies in depth. It may be a simple average of the depths.

OK, lets determine the surface area square footage:
Squares and rectangles are very easy (length times the width) Circles are a little more complicated (Pi r² is the formula where r² is the radius of the circle or half of the diameter times itself and Pi = 3.14). Round ends on a square or retangle are the combination of a circle and a rectangle/square. Other shapes may require you to break out a geometry book for the area of an oval. Kidney shapes are the very unique to calculate and will not be discussed at this time.

Now, lets determine the cubic feet of the pond:
If the depth is constant, it is simple the depth times the square footage of the surface will determine the cubic feet or volumn. If the bottom slopes from one depth to the other side of a different depth, calculate the average of the two depths. Any other changes in depth are basic estimates, but the average depth times the surface area.

Lastly, lets determine the number of gallons of the pond based on the volumn in cubic feet:
One cubic foot of water is 7.5 gallons. Therefore, a 100 cubic foot water feature has 750 gallons of water and 2000 cubic feet of water is 15,000 gallons.

Question: How do I determine the size of pump to feed my desired waterfall effect?  

First determine the weir width of your waterfall, as measured at the point where the water flows over.

Determine the depth or thickness of the water you want to flow over the fall weir. If you want a slow-flowing waterfall, an eighth of an inch is enough. Faster-moving waterfall weir should be three quarters of an inch.

Consult the chart to determine the number of gallons per hour you will need to pump to keep your waterfall pouring at your desired rate, e.g., a half an inch of water depth across a one-foot-wide waterfall weir, you need 780 gallons per hour.

Effect	1\8" Thickness	1\4" Thickness	1\2" Thickness	3\4" Thickness
Weir Width	Light Flow	Light to Medium Flow	Medium Flow	Medium to Heavy Flow
6"	60 GPH	120 GPH	360 GPH	660 GPH
1 ft.	120 GPH	240 GPH	780 GPH	1380 GPH
2 ft.	180 GPH	540 GPH	1500 GPH	2760 GPH
3 ft.	300 GPH	780 GPH	2280 GPH	4200 GPH
4 ft.	360 GPH	1080 GPH	3060 GPH	5580 GPH
5 ft.	480 GPH	1320 GPH	3780 GPH	7020 GPH
6 ft.	600 GPH	1620 GPH	4560 GPH	8400 GPH
7 ft.	660 GPH	1860 GPH	5340 GPH	9780 GPH
8 ft.	780 GPH	2160 GPH	6120 GPH	118220 GPH

Determine the overall height of the waterfall from weir to top of the pond. This will ensure you have enough liquid head lift for the pump you will select.

Last point is to consult the pump manufacturer's information or website for the necessary gallons per hour for the waterfall height's liquid head, e.g., your pump mat provide 750 gallons per hour at a height of one foot, but only 340 gallons per hour at a height of three feet.

So it pays to have the due dilligence to create your desired effect.

Question: External Pond Pumps vs. Submersible Pond Pumps?  

It first depends upon the benfits and restrictions of each type:
The Benefits of Submersible Pumps:
A submersible pump is designed to be placed in the pond, and submerged under the water.

Submersible Pond Pumps are the easiest of all pumps to install. Installation requires no more than attaching a hose to the waterfall, or filter. Then just place the submersible pump in the water and plug it into a power supply. Some have solar power.

Submersible Pond Pumps range in size, gallons or liters per hour (GPH or LPH). They are as small as 50 GPH, but for most ponds - pumps range from 350 GPH to 4000 GPH.

Some Disadvantages of Submersible Pumps:
Electrical short or electriacal bleed off into the water that may cause injury or death to fish (or humans). Albeit, most are UL approved.

Presence of the pump, cord and pipes in the pond may disrupt the visual enhancement of the pond.

The Benefits of External Pond Pumps:
External pond pumps are designed to be more energy efficient than swimming pool or submersible pumps.

Easy to clean.

Usually, come with a removable leaf trap or can be added which clog less often.

Easy to hook up to bottom drains, surface skimmers, and some sediment filters.

Generally external pond pumps last longer, and are easy to repair.

Higher lift capability than some submersible pumps.

Do not clutter up the pond's underwater visual experience.

Some Disadvantages of External Pumps:
Require some plumbing connections, shut off valves, and possibly more pipe.

Require more physical space and possibly some facility to hide them, pipe, and filters from view.

Question: How often should the water turn over in the pond?  

It first depends upon the size (number of gallons in your system -- pond, pipes, and filters). It is recommended that one turn the water over in a pond once every 2 hours. Once every hour is an ideal turn over rate in smaller ponds of less than 1000 gallons. Turn over means that all the water in the pond, pipes, and filter(s) cycle completely through the system.

Question: What is new pond syndrome?  

The most important part of a pond is the filtration system. This keeps water clean, clear and free of toxins such as ammonia and nitrite that are produced directly or indirectly by the koi and from decaying organic matter in the pond. Efficient filtration relies on the presence of beneficial micro-organisms such as bacteria, algae and protozoa. However, it takes a while for some of these organisms to become established in sufficient numbers to be fully effective. During this time water quality may be less than perfect, creating a situation commonly described as 'new pond syndrome'. Many disease outbreaks and koi deaths can be directly linked to stress caused by poor water quality, aka new pond syndrome. New koi in a new pond may get sick and die due to ammonia and nitrite spikes from an un-cycled biological filter. An immature filter on a new pond (new pond syndrome) is the cause of this. It takes time to develop a population of micro-organisms within a filter. To allow the filter to develop adequately, koi should be gradually introduced, one or two at a time over a few months. Avoid overfeeding which again puts too much of a strain on an immature filter. You can also purchase commercial products that will speed up the process such as 'Super Start Bacteria' for pond filters.

Question: What determines if a filter is "gravity" or "pressurized"?  

There are different types of filters you can purchase or make for your pond. The question you need to determine is if you want to push or pull water?

Most ponds that push water have a pressurized filter, similar to a swimming pool filter. Between your pond (body of water) and a filter container is a pump that will take the water from the pond and push it through a filter and then back to your pond. If a filter is not a closed container, chances are the water would spill or pour out the top instead of going through a pipe back to your pond which would be a problem. The filter needs to be a closed system, water tight, that would only allow the water to be pushed back to the pond through a pipe. In a closed system, you are pushing lots of water through a small container then through pipes. Pressure builds up in the container and the filters are designed to handle the pressure. These are often bead or other media biological filters.

In a gravity system you are pulling water. You have your pond (a body of water) followed by a pump that pulls the water. There may be a filter container (a second body of water), square or round, that holds water before the pump. In this first case, the water in the filter container is at the same height as the pond (not lower, or higher). When water is pulled from the filter by the pump it is replaced by the force of gravity from your pond. These are often vortex settlement filters. In the second case, there may be an open container after the pump (waterfall or trickle filter containers) that is above the pond level and uses gravity to flow the water back into your pond. The pump lifts the water to the higher level. You have to know the "liquid head lift" of the pump is larger than the height of your waterfall or trickle filter.

Both systems work. It is a matter of what you want, where you plan on placing your filter, and space. Pressurized systems are usually easier to install for a DYI project and provide flexibility. Gravity feed systems usually require less energy to operate but occupy more space.

An ideal organization of filters: gravity filters, then pumps, followed by pressurized filters, and finally UV filters.

Question: What's the difference between a UV Clarifier and a UV Sterilizer?  

UV-Clarifiers are used to kill algae and some disease organisms. Water flows through UV-Clarifiers faster than the UV-Sterilizers.

UV-Sterilizers kill 99% of floating algae as well as other living organisms. They do not harm the beneficial bacteria that grow in filters and on rocks, etc. in the pond. They kill the organisms that are floating in the pond water.

The best physical location for UV filter(s) is after the biological filter and before the return to the pond.

Most koi keepers opt for the UV Sterilizers to assist in killing any harmful bacteria and parasites.

Question: How much UV do I need for my pond?  

A basic need for UV is removal of green water (algae bloom). A basic guide is 8-10 watts per 1,000 gallons. Some pond people maintain that, for a reduction of bacterial levels, this can be increased to 30 watts per 1,000 gallons. Some additional factors are: flow rates, and stocking levels.

Question: Where is the best place in a pond system to add aeration?  

Directly into the biofilter system as close a possible to where the bacteria are sitting. Vortex filters and Japanese matting work so well in a serious water ponds system if plentiful volumes of air are supplied. Airstones in bog gardens are known to also help the plants.

Question: How much air should I add to my Koi Pond?  

Add as much air to your pond as you can using air pumps and air stones to distribute the air. You can add the air directly to the pond, the filter, the waterfall and anywhere else you can.

40 lpm / 1000 gallons

Pond Volume in Gallons	1000	2000	3000	4000	5000	10,000
Liters of air/min required to maintain Dissolved Oxygen at Koi Safe Levels	40	80	120	160	200	400

Overstocked ponds require additional aeration - double or even triple the number of liters per minute

Question: What affects how much oxygen is stored in water?  

The amount of oxygen water can hold is dependent upon atmospheric pressure, salinity and temperature. Water may hold less oxygen as your altitude increases. Salinity is not as important for most freshwater fish producers. The most important factor is water temperature. As temperature increases, water may hold less oxygen. Most low oxygen problems occur from June through September and impacts the larger fish first. Some reasons for this are:

•  Water can hold less oxygen as it becomes warmer.
  
•  Respiration rates of both plants and animals increase with the warmer water, so more oxygen is used.
  
•  Summer's still, hazy or cloudy days may reduce the amount of oxygen produced.
  
•  Large amounts of feed given to fish at this time of year result in large quantities of fish waste which create a higher demand for oxygen.
  
•  Plants' respiration during evening and night hours reduce the oxygen levels in the water and air.
  

Question: What affect does the location of the air pump have on my pond?  

NEVER install an air pump BELOW the pond's water level! (unless you install a check valve in the air line!).

If at any time your power supply to your air pump is interrupted, water will back siphon down the delivery tube and flood the pump workings, rendering the pump inoperative, to say nothing of the danger of water and electricity coming in contact with each other.

Question: Best and easiest way to seal a crack in hard shell liner?

It is easier to drape an EPDM liner inside the hard shell instead of trying to repair it.

Of course you have to remove the fish, plants, rocks, lights, etc.

Question: How can I keep Herons out of our pond -- and eating my fish?

This is a popular question with a multitude of answers. There have been ponds with CDs on a string to dance in the wind. Some use shade cloths over the ponds to hide from view. There have been fishing line stretched overhead to keep herons from landing. BTW, herons do not land in water they walk into water. Deep ponds (over three feet) or pond with vertical sides helps. Some use heron replicas since they are solitary types.

Links:

•  water-gardens-information
•  pond solutions
•  prevent heron theft
•  scarecrow
•  longherons
•  protect pond fish
•  GPPS Newsletter Insert "Adventures with Predators", by Jennifer White

Question: Will a pond cause mosquito problems in my yard?

If you keep fish in your pond, your fish will eat mosquitoes and their larvae. If you do not keep fish then you will want to use natural bacterial mosquito control products.

Question: Pond Constrution FAQs?

A link is provided to an already published list of Pond Construction FAQs. Source: Springdale Water Gardens Pond Construction FAQs

Question: When should I add fish to my pond?

It is recommended that one wait a month before adding fish to ponds. This will allow time for bacterial colonies to get established. Use bacterial starters and dechlorinators if you wish to add fish to ponds sooner. Time and mother nature are the safer side of starting a pond.

Question: What is a trickle filter?

A trickle filter is a type of gravity filter - it uses spray bars and gravity to return water to the pond. Noel Shaw, Southern Arizona Koi Association, AKCA Koi Health Advisor, has a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation that contains a lot of information to include a trickle filter.

This file is 7.3 Mb and is found at http://www.sakoia.org/TRICKLE_TOWER_AND_SHOWER_FILTERS.ppt which needs a PowerPoint viewer.

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Question: Doesn't the Phoenix summer heat over 110^o F kill the fish?  

The quick answer is NO!

That is if care is taken not to allow the water to boil --   ;)   hehehe.

While fish in the lakes and rivers survive the AZ heat, this question is couched on our human experience. So, first we must remember that fish live in water and it is the water temperature that effects them.

Waterfalls, fountains, sprays (like patio misters for humans), spitters, and even a filter that sprays water (known as a trickle filter) help to lower the water temperature and increase the saturation of oxygen in the water. Warmer water temperatures decrease the oxygen in the water. Plants respiraton during the night creates CO₂ and thereby decrease the oxygen saturation. Likewise, airstones and aeration of the pond are discussed in other FAQs is help the fish.

Fish metabolism decrease when the water temperature is either too hot or too cold. So, one of the first things to do is know the pond's water temperature. In the summertime, when the water temperature climbs to 86^o F and above decrease food and at 90^o F and above -- do not feed the fish. In the fall and winter: 55^o F and below is the trigger to stop feeding fish.

The Koi keepers that are koi krazy discuss that deeper the water the better. Deeper water has increased volumn and does not fluctuate rapidly. Shallow water heats up quicker and it is the rapid temperature fluctuation that stress the fish -- especially koi.

Question: What are the fish feeding secrets?  

Koi (Cyprinus Carpio) produce ammonia as a product of their metabolism, goldfish not as much as koi. The biofilters develop bacteria that breakdown ammonia into nitrogen products used by plants. In the late fall and the pond water temperature starts to drop, so does the koi metabolism and the filter's bacteria start to fail. The higher protein ( 30 + % ) fish food for coloration and growth should be reduced. When the water temperature is at or below 55^o F, stop feeding the fish. Likewise, stop feeding fish if your water temperature is above 90^o F.

There is a Japanese vegetable product "Manda Fu" that is highly digestable and very high in Vitamin C with very low fish waste products.

Wheat based and white fish meal based foods with shrimp, carotenoids and Vitamin C are good. Wheat germ based foods are very digestible, and Vitamin C boosts their immune system. Believe it or not: plain Cherios is an alternative food. When your water temperature starts climbing and is in the mid 60s, you might start teasing the fish with small amounts of higher protein foods with very small pellets.

During the summer, a very high protein treat for Koi is the hard tofu cut into small cubes.

During a recent search for the lowest percentage of protein pond food found in local stores was: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals, PondCare - Spring & Autumn Premium Pellet (11% protein with Vitamins A, C, D, E for water temps 42^o F - 70^o F)

One the die hard fish feeding secrets is to NOT over feed them. A rule of thumb is no more food than what they will consume in five (5) minutes.

Koi love watermellon, zucchini, oranges, grapefruit, lemons cut so they can attack the fruit or vegetable -- more vitamin C! Remember koi do not have teeth, they will just suck on the treat.

Question: Is there a local source for Koi information and knowledge?

GPPS has some members who also belong to the Valley of the Sun Koi Club, Inc. (a.k.a. VSKC) in the Greater Phoenix area. VSKC is a club in the Associated Koi Clubs of America (AKCA). VSKC's web site has numerous pages about Koi and Koi Keeping (Annual Show, FAQ's, Links, Koi Rescue, Sponsors & Vendors, Water Quality, History of Koi, Koi, Quarantine, Koi Health Advisor, and Ask Bryan to name a few key pages) and can be found at: Valley of the Sun Koi Club, Inc.

Question: What is a koi?

A koi is an ornamental Japanese carp (Cyprinus Carpio). Depending on the pond size, feeding and stockage levels, Koi can get 24-36 inches long. Koi have the same body shape and have two pair of barbells (whiskers) unlike goldfish that have several body configurations and fin combinations.

If you wish to learn more about Koi there is another non-profit club in the Greater Phoenix area where Koi is their focus: Valley of the Sun Koi Club, Inc.

Question: Must I learn Japanese to keep koi?  

No! But you may want to learn about koi. Their colors and patterns have numerous Japanese names.

If you wish to learn Koi names there is a web page at: Valley of the Sun Koi Club, Inc., Koi page

Question: What is the differences between koi and longfin, butterfly, or dragon koi?

First let us discuss: longfin, butterfly, or dragon koi. They are different names for koi with extensively longer fins. They are said to have originated from Thailand.

Whereas the Japanese versions have shorter fins and were considered "standard" koi by the Japanese. For many years longfin koi were shunned by Japanese breaders and the koi associations. The popularity of longfin koi in the United States has started to influence change in those opinions. Some Japanese koi breeders are developing longfin, butterfly or dragon koi. The Associated Koi Clubs of America has people certified by AKCA to be koi judges. They are dealing with specifications on how to judge longfin koi. Many Koi Shows have various awards for "standard" koi, but currently only have one judging option of "longfin" for all of the color combinations and sizes.

If you wish to learn more about Koi there is another non-profit club in the Greater Phoenix area where Koi is their focus: Valley of the Sun Koi Club, Inc.

Question: How do you get koi to eat from your hand?

First let us say -- koi do not have teeth that bite. They have molar type teeth in the back of their mouth for chewing food. Over time you may find those molars in the bottom of your pond.

Once trained to eat from your hand, they do suck on fingers and the back of your hand. So to start the process of teaching them, let us teach you. Remove all jewlery, water resistant watches, wash your hands well and rinse off all soap.

At first they will be skitish, so they must get use to you being near them when they eat. When they start coming up to the surface near you when they eat, you can proceed. Next, you have to introduce your hand to being in the water when you feed them. Start with the food away from your hand and slowly introduce the food closer and closer to your hand. Later, start having the food in your hand, letting some escape and float away from your hand. Larger fish will be the first to come near and later to your hand to eat. The fish are noisy when they suck in their food -- so do not flintch. Over time, little fish will come up to eat too. You can talk to them over this training period, in a sense calling them to chow! Some people do advise you not to name your fish. Why? Because you will not feel so bad should something happen to them. There is one type of koi that is really prone to the hand feeding habit -- Chagoi pronounced [cha' goy].

Question: How much do koi cost?

Cost of koi vary, ranging from a few dollars to several thousand. Confirmation (shape), color, size (age), and linage are factors that influence the cost.

Question: Are goldfish and koi related?

Goldfish are cousins to koi. Goldfish are a different species of the carp family. Goldfish are Chinese crucian carp (Carassius Carassius).

Question: Can goldfish and koi be together in the same pond?  

Goldfish and koi can be in the same pond. Some people segregate them into an upper or lower pond that are on the same filter system. Goldfish produce less ammonia than koi and do not grow as large (only eight to ten inches). Whereas, koi under ideal conditions can reach 36 inches and one type even larger than 36 inches.

Goldfish and Shubunkins will live happily in Koi ponds. However you should be aware that certain types of fish such as Rudd and Orfe are more sensitive to some medications. Make sure that you check any treatments before use in your pond.

Question: What are the types and varieties of goldfish?

Goldfish Society of America (GFSA) developed a classification system for goldfish. This system differentiates them into three broad categories, based on tail and with or without dorsal fin type. Each of those categories have their own varieties.

Source: Goldfish Varieties By Peter J. Ponzio, AGA Certified Judge

Question: What causes my goldfish to swim upside down?

Searching the WWW, disclosed that others across the USA have had the problem of a goldfish swimming upside down -- mind you they are not dead, just upside down.

Fish have "swim bladders" that control the height or depth of their swimming. Swim bladder disease is one cause that can be treated with the correct medication.

A second cause is constipation caused by either too much food or the wrong type of food. Goldfish do have specific foods designed for them. During the colder water temperatures, like all fish, their metabolism shuts down. Food can set in the stomach area and not be digested. The WWW has stories of feeding green peas to help upside down goldfish.

Question: What fish can help control algae?  

There is a "Chinese Algae Eater" (CAE) that can live up to ten years. It does have problems with water temperatures being low. One GPPS member's CAE was very slow and hardly moving until she removed it from her pond and placed it inside her home.

Another algae eating fish is the Chinese High Fin Shark. One was recently seen swimming in a Koi pond by your webmaster. It looked to be eight to ten inches in length. The owner has had this fish for three years.

Question: Are there any native Arizona fish for my pond?

There are some native fishes that may appeal to GPPS members. The American Flagfish, (Jordanella floridae), gets about 2-3 inches and is an excellent algae-eating fish. It's quite attractive and does well in Arizona ponds. Another species is the Giant Sailfin Molly, (Poecilia latipinna), which can reach 6-8 inches. It also is primarily a vegetarian, but is a surface-dwelling species whereas the Flagfish tends to stay near the bottom.

Source is an e-mail from Allan Semeit.

Question: I hear there is a small mosquito eating fish?

The Mosquito Fish, (Gambusia affinis), is the bane of conservationists. It is a very predatory species that outcompetes most native fishes. My preference is to encourage GPPS members to use alternate species for mosquito control.

Source is an e-mail from Allan Semeit.

Webmaster has heard from several sources that your goldfish or koi will eat mosquito larvae.

Question: What is the AKCA?  

Associated Koi Clubs of America (AKCA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to Koi keeping. It is focused on information exchange and expanding knowledge. Breeders, collectors, and Koi enthusiasts benefit from the Association's annual National Seminar and local clubs. Their web site is AKCA.

Question: What is the AGA?

It is an acronym for the American Goldfish Association. It is a group of goldfish people who have gotten together to promote the breeding, raising and showing of goldfish in the U.S. and Canada Their web site is AGA.

Question: What is the GFSA?

Goldfish Society of America is dedicated primarily to goldfish. It is focused on information exchange and expanding knowledge. Breeders, collectors, and goldfish enthusiasts benefit from the Society?s publications and local clubs. Water gardeners and Koi enthusiasts are also served by GFSA. Their web site is GFSA.

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Question:  What is the blue green color on some lanscape rocks seen around pond areas that is not turquoise?  

First lets define what is turquoise. Turquoise is a blue to grey green mineral consisting of copper aluminum phosphate. Native Americans used turquoise in making jewerly decorations

Some landscapes have rocks with the blue green mineral that is not turquoise. The copper mine in Ajo, Arizona have copper aluminum silicate.

Reminder, copper is not safe for fish so do not place stones with copper aluminum silicate in any water feature with fish, especiall koi.

Question:  Why Should I join a Koi club or water garden society?  

An advantage of belonging to either is the pool of resources available to members. You will be able to get relevant advice about almost anything related to the hobby. It is likely that another member has had the same issue as you. A Koi club will specialize in Koi, whereas a water garden pond club will cover a broad spectrum.

Another advantage is that you will often be able to get discounted prices on equipment, fish, etc.

Clubs or societies invite guest speakers to talk about a particularly relevant topic or invite authors or famous faces in the hobby to offer guidance, advice and support.

Question:  Can you list any landscaping tips?

Smiling Dog Landscapes has granted us permission to link to their tips web page "Landscape Tips".

Question: Can you list any How to libraries?

The Water Garden

Practical-Water-Gardens

Question: I want to increase flow to my waterfall from 1,500 gph (gallon per hour) to almost 4,000 gph, what size pipe should I use?

To increase water flow to 4,000 gph you need to use the appropriate size of pipe. When using a 4,000 gph pump, a proper size of pipe would be two inch. A way to think about pipe size is to imagine drinking through a straw. A cocktail straw it would take longer than if you were to drink water from a standard size straw.

•  Up to 500 GPH: Use 1/2" inside diameter
•  Up to 900 GPH: Use 3/4"
•  Up to 1,500 GPH: Use 1"
•  Up to 2,700 GPH: Use 1-1/4"
•  Up to 3,600 GPH: Use 1-1/2"
•  Up to 5,400 GPH: Use 2"
•  Up to 13,500 GPH: Use 3"
•  Up to 21,000 GPH: Use 4"
•  Up to 42,000 GPH: Use 6"

A Tip: Avoid sharp 90 degree turns because it will reduce water flow. Consider using sweep corner if you must. A sweep still has resistance but it has a bend and not a right angle.

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Question: Is there any information about Arizona and Sonoran Desert Toads?  

ReptileChannel.com

Question: Is there any source of information about brine shrimp?  

Again, a yes answer. There is a website for "Brine Shrimp Direct" and they have authorized us to link to them. Their site has articles, FAQs, sells the brine shrimp eggs, hatching products online resources, and all kinds of other aquatic foods.

Your webmaster has been given a club member ID number that will give you a discount that you can use on their website when purchasing their products.

As cited above: GPPS makes no waranties nor endorsements of their products.

GPPS current members: If you want member code number please e-mail the webmaster identifying the company and request for ID.

If you wish to order frozen product or air shipment from them, they suggest you phone them at 800-303-7914 or 801-782-4700. Since they are in Utah, a two day ground, packed in dry ice shipment is provided to us in the Phoenix area.

Visit their website: http://www.brineshrimpdirect.com/.

Bulk orders totalling $250 or more also have discounts.

Question: Are there snails that eat algae? Is there a better snail for ponds?

In brief, the answer is yes. However, there are snails that eat the other pond plants and lay eggs that may cause the pond to become over populated. Some can be rather large.

The Google search that proved the best was at http://www.pondplants1.com/snails.htm.

Question: Is there a large snail for ponds that lays eggs and eats plants?

Again, a yes answer. A potentially rather large snail is the Apple Snail. They are egg layers (aboe the water line) and they do eat plants.

IMHWO, the Google search that proved the best was at http://www.applesnail.net/content/faq.php#6.

Question: How do you keep snails happy?

They need a high in calcium diet and a high pH for healthy strong shells.

Question: Is there an organization that can inform me about desert reptiles? You know Arizona native snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises!

There are non-profit organizations here in Greater Phoenix and Arizona. They will help you if you have a critter in your yard: if you do not know what it is or you want to get rid of it. Note: Some species in Arizona are protected.

Phoenix Herpetological Society     Arizona Herpetological Association

Question: Why are reptiles called cold blooded?

Their blood is not cold, but they do not generate their own heat. They are more accurately defined at ectothermic. Ectothermic creatures get their heat from the surroundings. Reptiles need heat to assist in the digestion of food and other body functions.

Question: What is the difference between a turtle and a tortoise?

Turtles are Chelonians that are aquatic or semi-aquatic. A tortoise is a Chelonian that lives on land. Chelonians lack teeth and usually have a hard shell that protects the body and consists of bony plates fused to the vertebrae and ribs. Unlike all other living reptiles, the skulls of chelonians lack temporal openings

Question: What is wrong with my turtle's shell?

A turtle's shell showing signs of pitting, soft spots, fluid under the shell plates, discharge or foul smell, or shell plates falling off and exposing tissue, your turtle has shell rot. Shell rot is an infection of a turtle's shell. The turtle's environment may have caused the infection. Check for one or more of the following:

•   Too much moisture
•   Too little moisture
•   Unsanitary conditions
•   Improper diet
•   Improper heat
•   Improper light

It is wise to research the needs of the turtle and create an environment to meet those needs.

Question: What are the temperature ranges for a red eared slider?

TEMPERATURE RANGE (°F)

•   Air Temperature: mid 70's - 80's
•   Basking Temperature: High 80's to low 90's

•   Water Temperature: ~ 72 to 76 degrees for sub-adults & adults
•   78 to 80 degrees for hatchlings & smaller juveniles

Source: Red Eared Slider

Question: Is there a web site for Arizona Reptiles and Amphibians?

Reptiles and Amphibians of Arizona

Arizona Fish and Game Department

Question: Do you have a question and answer that needs to be here?

If you do, send an e-mail with the information to webmaster