Is an aquarium too big for you or simply too expensive? This is quite understandable, especially since such an aquarium requires a lot of maintenance. Still would you like to keep fish? You certainly have a rain barrel in your garden. Believe it or not, you can keep fish here too. In contrast to an aquarium, you also benefit from the animals. Curious? Then you should definitely read this article.

Fish in the water butt eat mosquito larvae

Requirements for the rain barrel

  • Sufficient space for the corresponding fish population.
  • No chemical residue.
  • No leaks.
  • Inaccessible to cats.
  • Water should only be used to water your plants.
  • An integrated filter system for consistently good water quality.
  • Stable and stable

Benefits of Fish in the Rain Butt

By keeping fish in your water butt, you will not only amaze visitors. Fish also drive away mosquito larvae, which are often found in the rain barrel. The insects only use calm waters to lay their eggs. In order to absorb oxygen, the larvae settle on the water surface, which carries them due to surface tension. But if fish move the water, the larvae cannot cling, fall down and drown. Some fish species even feed on microorganisms and thus prevent heavy soiling of your water butt.

maintenance

Nevertheless, you must primarily ensure that your water butt is permanently clean. Never use chemical agents for cleaning. This would have serious consequences for both the fish and the rest of the environment.
You should also feed your fish. Choose light feed, not sink feed. Residues that settle on the bottom deteriorate the water quality in the long run.

Fish overwinter in the rain barrel

You can keep your fish outside in the rain barrel even in winter. In this article you can find out which measures and requirements must be in place for this.

Category:

Garden design