How does a Photo Bioreactor help your pond?
This term sounds like a NASA project but it really is quite simple and may already be happening in your pond to maintain a balance between water quality and nutrient management. A photo bioreactor (PBR) processes sunlight and nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, minerals) occurring in the pond water to support the growth of photoautotrophic organisms like algae, green plants and microorganisms. Aquatic plants and organisms are essential for food chain sustainability in a pond and for the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) which can be detrimental to fish and other aquatic critters. A healthy pond has a functional PBR unless it has been manipulated through environmental changes, chemical applications, or has matured and is soon to become a swamp.
Thoughts to consider:
- Sunlight is needed for photosynthesis. Muddy water or too much dye limits sunlight penetration.
- Green algae and macrophytes are essential food sources, oxygen producers and champions for reducing nutrients.
- Chemical applications may disrupt the efficiency of a photo bioreactor and cause the reconfiguration of the pond food chain.
- Cyanobacteria (HAB’s) often takes over when the aquatic food chain is not functioning to process excess nutrients in the pond.
A healthy pond is a tremendous asset for your landscape and the environment. Email us a few pictures of your pond if you have questions.
Jim Kennedy info@nationalpondservice.com