When is a Koi Pond More Than a Pond?
By Amber Camacho
When arriving at Project Chimps, our koi pond is one of the first sights to greet you. It is a haven for many species, including our resident koi, grass carp, and snapping turtles. While the pond is man-made, it is spring-fed and maintains its volume without help. Its unique color has everyone asking the same questions: ‘Why is it that color?’ and ‘How does it affect the wildlife that call it home?’
Why is the Pond That Color?
The pond was originally filled with an aquatic plant called Parrot Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum), which is an invasive species that is notoriously difficult to control—cutting it causes it to grow and even the smallest fragments can re-establish themselves. After the tenacity of our facilities department, it was removed successfully. We now use a product called Aquashade to prevent it from growing back. Not only does the Aquashade give the pond its beautiful color, but it also prevents unwanted aquatic plant and algae growth at the bottom of the pond.
How Does it Affect the Wildlife?
Aquashade does not affect the fish or turtles at all! It is a non-toxic dye that is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, and when used properly, it won’t stain the humans and it definitely doesn’t stain the fish. The product works by filtering a specific segment of the light spectrum necessary for plants at the bottom of the bond to photosynthesize.
Who Calls the Pond Home?
Our koi pond came with the property, already stocked full of fish! The koi were deemed too ugly to sell and were intended to be destroyed. So, the koi were brought to sanctuary in the very early days when this was Gorilla Haven. In 2018, Dr. Jim McClearen added grass carp to the pond.
If you have ever had an opportunity to visit and walk around the pond, you have certainly seen the beautiful koi. You’ve also possibly seen our snapping turtle, who I affectionately refer to as ‘Turt’ Russell. He was the original resident of the pond and is believed to be over 30 years old! Recently, a second a snapping turtle has joined the pond.
Among our year-round residents, you can find a variety of frogs, snakes, lizards, and flying insects. We also have seasonal guests as well, like migrating monarch butterflies that come to visit our milkweed and pollinator gardens. Recently, we had a pair of geese vacationing at our pond. It was delightful to see them exploring its edges and floating on its surface. Last summer, a great blue heron visited for a while. The koi were less thrilled about it than the humans were.
When is a Pond More Than a Pond?
Our koi pond is so much more than a home for “ugly” fish. It’s a sanctuary to anyone who finds themselves at its edges, no matter the species. It’s an invitation to stop for a moment and acknowledge the beauty of nature and our place in it—be it on a bench, in the gazebo, or making your way to or from the hiking trails.
You can visit our pond year-round! It’s also a beautiful outdoor event space perfect for weddings, reunions, birthday parties, and other gatherings.