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Water gardens and fish

While we're on the subject of water gardens, I read this morning in 
Common Sense Pest Control Quarterly (a respected publication of the 
non-profit Bio-Integral Resource Center BIRC dedicated to least-toxic 
methods of pest control) of the ecological dangers of goldfish.

A recommendation to stock small backyard ponds with goldfish for 
mosquito control was changed by a letter written by Jean Held pointing 
out the destructive habits of goldfish, koi, and carp in backyard ponds 
(apparently they devour eggs of native frogs, other amphibians and 
beneficial insects such as dragonflies). Apparently, when they escape, 
which happens frequently (when you read how, you'll understand how easy 
it is) they "rip up bottom vegetation, stir up the bottom, devour young 
and eggs of native species. I have seen healthy ponds die with the 
introduction of these fish. Without vegetation, algae blooms form, and 
whatever native species might try to colonize the pond can find no 
hiding places or food." There's more in the full letter cited below.

William Quarles of BIRC replied "When we recommended goldfish for the 
backyard pond or container, it never occurred to us that these exotic 
fish would be able to get into surface water from a backyard pond. Thank 
you for pointing out the potential problem." 

Since water gardens are so popular and goldfish are so appealing, well 
advertised and available, writers might make a good story out of warning 
the public. Or doing more research on the subject. Let's hear from those 
who know. I talked with Bill this morning, he'd like to hear more on the 
subject.

The reference is Common Sense Pest Control 17(4) Fall 2001, p.22 (I just 
received it so I guess I'm not the only one behind!)

BIRC has a website http:/www.birc.org, email birc@igc.org. tel 510 524 
2567 for info and proper publication credit and acknowledgement.

Sally Williams
once a librarian, always a librarian

Editor and publisher
Garden Literature Press

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