Establishing a healthy pond starts with selecting fish suited to UK weather and owner commitment levels. Through his experience assisting many pond clients, That Pond Guy emphasizes how species selection depends on proper pond size along with appropriate maintenance practices to ensure optimal outcomes.

The proper function of Evolution Aqua Pond pumps ensures ideal aquatic conditions for various selected fish species.

Goldfish: The Ideal Starter Fish

Goldfish remain the most beginner-friendly option, with several attractive varieties:

• Common goldfish: Hardy single-coloured specimens
• Shubunkins: Calico-patterned with translucent scales
• Sarasa comets: Vibrant red-and-white swimmers.

These resilient fish adapt well to small-to-medium ponds (minimum 500L per fish) and help control algae naturally. They coexist peacefully with most plants and other species, though That Pond Guy advises against mixing them with large koi that may outcompete them for food.

Koi Carp: High-Maintenance Beauties

Koi enthusiasts can choose from stunning varieties like:

• Kohaku: White bodies with red patterns
• Butterfly koi: Long flowing fins
• Doitsu: Scaleless varieties with unique textures.

These living jewels demand serious commitment, requiring at least 1,000L water per fish and robust filtration. That Pond Guy frequently reminds clients that koi grow rapidly, often exceeding 60cm, and their constant foraging can uproot delicate aquatic plants.

Native UK Species: Low-Impact Choices

For eco-conscious pond owners, native options offer advantages:

• Golden orfe: Shoaling fish needing groups of 5+
• Tench: Bottom-dwellers that help clean ponds
• Rudd: Surface feeders with iridescent scales.

These species naturally withstand UK winters and support local biodiversity when sourced responsibly. That Pond Guy particularly recommends Tench for their algae-cleaning habits in medium-to-large ponds.

Speciality Fish: Unique Considerations

Sturgeon & Sterlet

• These prehistoric-looking bottom feeders need:
• Specialist sinking pellets (they struggle with floating food)
• Powerful current from pumps like Evolution Aqua Pond pumps
• Cool water temperatures (below 20°C).

Sticklebacks

Ideal for small wildlife ponds because:

• They naturally control mosquito larvae
• Require no supplemental feeding
• Thrive without filtration systems.

Species to Avoid

UK regulations prohibit keeping invasive species like:

• North American sunfish
• All crayfish varieties
• Chinese weather loaches.

That Pond Guy emphasizes the ecological damage these species cause if released, urging pond owners to always verify a fish’s legal status before purchasing.

Stocking Density Guidelines

To prevent overcrowding:

• Small fish (<15cm): 1 per 100L
• Medium fish (15-30cm): 1 per 500L
• Large fish (>30cm): 1 per 1,000L.

That Pond Guy notes that most beginners overstock initially, leading to water quality issues that stress fish populations.

Seasonal Care Essentials

• Summer Maintenance
• Monitor oxygen levels during heatwaves
• Feed high-protein foods morning/evening
• Provide shade with floating plants.

Winter Preparation

• Switch to wheatgerm foods below 10°C
• Prevent complete ice-over
• Stop feeding below 4°C.

Equipment Recommendations

Pair fish selections with appropriate:

• Filtration (oversized for messy species like koi)
• Aeration systems
• UV clarifiers for algae control
• Thermometers to monitor temperature fluctuations.

That Pond Guy suggests starting with a few hardy goldfish or native species to learn pond management before progressing to demanding varieties. His clients who follow this approach report fewer problems and greater enjoyment.

Ready to begin? Visit a specialist retailer to see fish varieties in person and get tailored advice for your specific pond setup.