The Pond Doctor
Algae & Aquatic Weed Control Specialist - Pond Management Services & Information

812-623-2253 119 N. Meridian St., Sunman, IN 47041 E-Mail Us

ORGANIC SEDIMENT/SLUDGE

Organic sediment or sludge is that black nasty smelling stuff on the bottom of a pond. It is, in some form and to some degree, a normal and healthy process in a natural body of water, since it provides a food source to microscopic aquatic forms of life. However, it is basically a combination of fish and other aquatic animal waste and dead plant materials such as leaves and weeds that have settled to the bottom. Organic sediment or sludge should not be confused with silt. Organic sediment or sludge is decaying matter, that is why it has a very dark color and has a foul nasty odor. Silt is a different kind of problem and will no be discussed here.

Organic sediment or sludge is a major source of nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen and carbon in a pond. These nutrients are the primary food source for
algae and aquatic weeds. While some levels of these nutrients are necessary to support the aquatic wild life living in the pond, sufficient quantities of these nutrients can enter the water naturally from rain, ground water, lighting, and the atmosphere. Excessive amounts of nutrients should be controlled and reduced.

The control of nutrients, as a means of algae and aquatic weed management, has become a major focus in the past few years.