It's the Time of the Season

NBWG Newsletter

372 W College St. Marshall, MO

It's the Time of the Season

July in Missouri is like no other month. With heat indexes of over 110 degrees, crowded swimming pools, and a permanent sunglasses mark, it is officially the time of the season- the hottest days of summer. While we are sweating bullets, don't forget that your fish are facing the heat too! 
As temperatures rise, you may start to notice your fish gasping for air at the top of the water's surface. Aquascape Inc. explains this activity: "Warm water has a low capacity for holding oxygen, while cooler water can hold large amounts of oxygen. As the water becomes warmer, your fish become more active. That increased activity means the fish require more oxygen when less oxygen is available to them." Bacteria and other causes of disease thrive in warm water so if your fish are already weak from a lack of oxygen, they will be more likely to get sick. 
A simple solution is to keep your pond water cool by incorporating plants into your water garden. If one-third to one-half of your water's surface is covered by aquatic plants, your pond water will be able to cool down significantly. Water lilies, mosaic plants, and floating plants, such as the water hyacinth and water lettuce, are all shade providing professionals. 
The pickerel plant can also provide great shade for your fish and add some color to your water garden. Its bright blue-purple blooms stand out against green arrow-shaped leaves. Pickerel plants are known for their filtration abilities- something that comes in handy during the summer months when pollutants are at a high. Come check yours out today at Nature's Beauty Water Gardens!