Watching thrushes in the garden pond can be quite tranquil, especially when they come to the surface and snap at the passing mosquitoes. And otherwise they are among the undemanding pond dwellers that adapt perfectly to the water quality at any time of the year.

Moldy lilies eat mosquito larvae

Relatively undemanding as far as the size and equipment of the water tank are concerned, easy to keep and satisfied with insects and aquatic animals from the area as food, it is no wonder that the mildew flies are among the most popular fish species in the garden pond. Since they like to live in company, it is best to put eight to ten of the cute swarming fish in your ornamental pond, which will then ensure that there are no mosquitoes around the bank as far as possible.

Characteristics of the Moderlieschen

  • Length: 8 to 12 cm;
  • preferred environment: just below the water surface at approx. 18 to 20 °C;
  • Overwintering: possible directly in the pond;
  • Appearance: Blue-silver scales on a sleek figure;
  • Diet: mosquito larvae, hopper insects, water fleas, algae;
  • Supplementary feeding: possible with all commercially available types of fish food;
  • very adaptable even in minimally sized fish ponds;

Moderates are undemanding pool fish

Thus, the animals that prefer to live in swarms also feel very comfortable in smaller garden ponds that are not quite as clean. They like to stay in planted bank areas and are quite resistant to occasional cold and sub-zero temperatures. However, the pond should not freeze completely, as this would jeopardize the animals' oxygen supply.

Moderlieschen and animal welfare

Since more and more naturally formed ponds in our environment are being drained, the spread of the mildew has decreased significantly in recent years. Although we still often find them in quarry ponds and floodplains, they are among the endangered and therefore protected animal species and are on the Red List. Therefore, it is better not to get the animals at the nearest village pond, but rather in one of the aquarium shops for around 2 euros.

Moderlieschen and their willingness to reproduce

Under optimal living conditions, the animals tend to reproduce extensively relatively quickly. Pond owners often report that a group of four to five animals can develop into a swarm of more than 100 mildew worms within a few months and without any action.

tips

In the case of strongly increasing stocks, note that according to the Red List, it is not permissible to release the mustache into local waters. The settlement of natural predators such as perch, trout, birds and cats is more helpful.

Category:

Garden design