Ponds which occur naturally from either the removal of land and subsequent collection of surface water, or naturally occurring dips in the land are on the decline due to a number of factors. These factors all lead to water quality and as ponds are vital as habitats for smaller species, insects, invertebrate and plants, it is imperative that the water be clean and safe.
In 1994 the ‘UK Biodiversity Action Plan’ (BAP)was drawn up detailing ways in which the UK’s biological resources would be conserved. In 2007 DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) wrote ‘Conserving Biodiversity – The UK Approach’. These plans and strategies show the commitment to the conservation of our natural environments and is a great step in the right direction.
Water contamination occurs in a number of ways and is a serious threat to the species which live in ponds and larger animals which drink from them. Water can become too acidic from polluted rainwater or be infected with toxins from heavy industry involving harmful materials such as metals. Runoff from agricultural land containing fertilisers can increase the growth of algae which can block sunlight from reaching the submerged water dwelling species. By the same token runoff containing pesticides can pose a threat to the native insect population.
Larger bodies of water which experience the rapid growth of algae, such as lakes, can experience a loss in species of fish and shellfish which may have previously been harvested as food. It can also cause a change to the type of species living in such habitats to those which thrive in the new altered, oxygen low conditions and pose a threat to the original inhabitants.
Some types of algae that occur in ponds due to this process can produce toxins. Small insects and animals which feed on the algae will pass these toxins through the food chain and along to much larger animals, which may die as a result.
Movement of land and excavation for urbanisation and development can also pose a threat to natural ponds. The quality of the water and the ability of plants to survive depends on the nutrients in the soil. Human activity not only impacts soil quality immediately, but the substances we put in the ground alter the soil for years. Sewerage and foreign materials which find their way into soil can filter through below the surface and end up in ponds and lakes.
In larger bodies of water, small fluctuations like these do not take such a toll on the wildlife living there. Often species have become hardened to such conditions and levels of nutrients and gasses, though some may suffer.
In smaller aquatic habitats the life can be more delicate and may not withstand pollutants or toxins. Loss of life in these ponds causes stagnation which pollutes the water further, so something must be done to limit the impact human activity has on pond life to prevent the loss of natural ponds in developed countries.
Pond Keeper is the UKs leading supplier of Pond Liners and Pond Pumps.
Article Source: Threats to natural ponds
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