Pond Setup

[Gix]

Hi,
I hope to try to build a little pond in the corner of my patio. Because of the way the land lies, it would end up being something like a "split-level" pond, with an existing wall and dirt on two sides and a wooden structure that I would build to support the third side. I looked at dimensions, and I can have either a 296 US gallon or a 434 US gallon pond. What sort of things can I keep in it? I suppose most any kind of goldfish, plus maybe some dojo loaches. It's probably too small a pond for koi, though...right? I'm very new to this, so any help woud be appreciated.

Also, if you could give me a quick list of things I need in my pond for everything to work right, that would be great. From what I've heard, I need a biological filter (which I assume is available at my LFS?), a pump, substrate, plants, shade, and a good liner. Anything else I should know about?

 

[bribones]

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=76895

 

[Gix]

Thanks for the link...I guess I didn't notice that thread when I looked )
My only question then is stocking.... Is there a general rule? Can I still use the inch/gallon rule?
Channel catfish will be too big for this pond, right? Or are they okay for 300-400 US gallons? I've had a tough time finding info on them, but they're available at my LFS.

 

[ryan]

Channel Catfish will be far to big and would view most of the other occupants as food. If you want a catfish there are options like the bullheads but you have to remember that you will hardly ever see these in a pond. For the basic pond you will need a filter which is normally run by a small pump, an oxygen pump also comes in handy especailly in the summer. Plants will make it look attractive aswell as benefit the fish. Some possible fish choices are -

Rudd
Tench
Goldfish
Sunfish
Stone Loaches
Minnows
Sticklebacks.......

The stocking levels really depend on the filter and the fish you choose to stock it with. Goldfish will produce far more waste than most other fish so that will limit their numbers.