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By Jamie Beyer
When asked about the potential of Koi Clay about two months ago at a presentation that I did in Davenport, I drew a blank. I did not know anything about the stuff but had heard the term. The Koi enthusiasts there were very well versed on the use of it and wanted me to know about it also. Did I get the info and I want to share what I learned to you.
First of all it is suppose to control string algae or blanket weed. Wow, what a claim and, if it is true, it can be one of the best additions to an ecosystem that I can think of. Several sources has confirmed this information so it is definitely worth a try.
It is also suppose to supplement the pond's water with essential minerals and trace elements that most of our rubber lined ponds lack. These minerals and trace elements are needed by our koi and goldfish to reach their maximum potential. According to the information that I have accessed on the internet, their colors are more intense and they can achieve optimum health. The very best Koi in Japan are raised in mud (clay) bottom ponds and even the top Koi breeders add clay to their ponds.
The leading Koi experts in the world agree that the clay that contains the most minerals and trace elements is bentonite/montmorillonite clay. This stuff is mined and processed in mines around the world. Not all are the same. There is a sodium bentonite that is different that calcium bentonite, which is Koi Clay. Sodium bentonite is the stuff that is used to naturally seal ponds without the use of rubber liner. There are problems with this sealing process but it does work.
Okay, so what is the difference? Sodium bentonite will swell to 20 times it's particle size thereby sealing a pond bottom with a gel-like mass. Calcium bentonite does not swell as much but it does have the trace minerals that is necessary for our fish.
It is also claimed that Koi Clay will absorb toxins in the water like heavy metals, free radicals and pesticides. They are attracted to the clay's extensive surface area. This suspension will then settle out and your mechanical filter can take it out of the water. If you do a pond "cleaning" every so often then it will also be removed.
You use 1 level tablespoon of Koi Clay per 1000 gallons every other day for the first two weeks. Then on the third week only dose one or two days per week. You can dissolve Koi Clay into a container of pond water and pour it evenly around the pond or make it into a mud ball and lay it in a gently flowing stream of water so it dissolves slowly. Some turbidity will result in the additions but this is suppose to settle out quickly.
The minerals added are beneficial to all living things. Not only your plants and fish but also your bacteria and other critters in your pond. You know how I go on about your critters. These guys are the basis of life in your pond and when we can improve them, then we improve the ecosystem.
You can add Koi Clay to your fish food but in my own case I plan on not doing this. You have to moisten the food and redry it. This complicates the process and I prefer to keep things simple. Believe me your fish will ingest the stuff naturally.
References to using Koi Clay almost always refer to improving conditions for Koi but don't let this deter you from using it in your goldfish ponds. It will work equally as well for them. According the literature on Koi Clay, you will see an improvement in your water quality as well as the colors of your fish within two or three weeks. Your fish will show increased appetites and vigor.
I have to say that I am very positive on using this stuff. I am going to be using it in all my ponds. Cost is about $7 to $10 per pound. There are a lot of tablespoons in a pound.
Now that I have everybody hyped up on the stuff just how do we get it. I am appealing to our Fountains of Support to add this to your inventory. It is sold as Koi Clay or Terra Pond.
There is a web site that sells the stuff and that is www.bonniesplants.com/pond_supplies.htm
Any questions please contact me.