If only I Could Harness the Algae in My Pond…

Everyone who owns a pond has had an algae bloom at least once, for most of us it usually happens at least once a season. Whether it’s microscopic free floating algae that makes ponds look like pea soup, or filamentous algae that grow in long stands, dense mats or something that seems more like some sort of primordial ooze, most pond owners curse algae.

However unsightly algae may look in your pond, it really isn’t bad for your pond or your fish. In fact, it grows in cold and warm water temperatures, consuming nitrates and phosphates from the water, improving the water quality of the pond. Koi and goldfish nibble on algae and it also feeds zooplankton – tiny aquatic organism (small shrimp and insect larvae) which in-turn small fish feed upon. Before koi farmers in Japan introduce their baby into their mud ponds, they fertilize them to stimulate green water to produce the food to feed an abundance of zooplankton which in turn feed the koi.

Innovative Uses For Algae

But perhaps the most amazing thing about algae is its potential for a number of extraordinary uses for people. Take a look at this interesting article recent published in the European Biotech News Website describes some of the new and potential uses of algae, such as waste-water treatment, production of food supplements, biofuels, bio-bitumen (for making roads), plastics, adhesives, paints, dyes and possibly even aviation fuel. There are also companies looking into the use of algae for nutrition and medical uses.