On 20 Jul 2005 13:36:58 -0700, wrote:

hey all, was wondering what the best way to start a bacteria colony in
our new 4000G pond (also, when can we would be the soonest we could
start introducing koi?). we installed a fluid art ultimate system with
vortex, uv, bead filtration.. we actually live nearby a rather large
lake and wonder if that would be a good place to collect some bacteria
to introduce into our pond? if people prefer off the shelf bacteria,
which products?

thanks

Bacteria from a lake would be okay, if you could be sure you weren't
getting any of the nasties that might also be in the lake.

MicrobeLift makes a special product just for bead filters. Bacteria will
come on its own. As far as starting koi, please read this:
http://tinyurl.com/55kv6 . Do NOT put goldfish in, if you want this to be a
koi only pond.

Are you planning to have any plants? If so, get as many as you can and get
them growing well and consider only putting in small koi, so they are
raised with the plants, as plants not salad. ~ jan


See my ponds and filter design:
www.jjspond.us

~Keep 'em Wet!~
Tri-Cities WA Zone 7a
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