Ornamental Fish Production and Management (1+1)

12.1.9 Stocking levels

The maximum safe stocking level for fish in a garden pond is to be decided based on its size and other factors. Although this may be exceeded by experienced pond keepers, especially if some form of filtration or aeration is used, it is a useful guide for a newly-established pond as it includes a margin for fish growth. Stocking should begin with a number of relatively inexpensive fish (to ensure there are no unforeseen problems) and then proceed towards the above-maximum figure over a few weeks. “New pond syndrome” (as opposed to “new tank syndrome”) is less often referred to in the hobbyist literature, although it is still unwise to stock a pond with too many fish too soon.