I have just found that there are about 50+ tadpoles in my backyard pond. The pond was created by using a plastic liner and has a pump that circulates water through an old-time water pump (the pond is about 5 feet by 3 feet). I have read that you should change the water frequently so that it doesn't get murky and discolored; however, I don't want to remove all of the tadpoles and add fresh water if I don't have to. Will they survive if I don't change the water? Could I just add tap water when the water level falls a bit, or do I need to change ALL of the water? How many tadpoles will survive to become frogs? Any other personal or other information you have about tadpoles and keeping them alive would be greatly appreciated!
2006-07-18 12:21:38 · 5 answers · asked by TravelGirl 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
I am very happy to see that someone is a nature lover. Some people would just pour bleach in the pond and kill the tadpoles.
As for the tadpoles: It is hard to answer the questions because I do not know the species. http://enature.com/zipguides/ Look at this site, type in your Zip Code, and it will give you a listing of all the native mammals/reptiles/birds/etc. that live in your ZIP. You may be able to identify the type of frog that layed eggs in your backyard.
If you are able to ID the frog, then look up info on it.
If you are unable to ID the frog, then assume this: If the tadpoles look like they are thriving (moving around a lot, eating, etc.) leave the pond in the condition that it is currently in. If it gets more dirty clean it up till it gets to how it is now. You may also want to go to your local Wal-mart and buy blood worms or betta food, this type of food is a staple on most tadpoles' diets. Just add some food twice a day to make sure they survive. Id there seems to be too many tadpoles, they will most likey start eating themselves. if you want to avoid this, get some large jars (depending on the tadpole's size) and put some of your pond water in the jar, then add the tadpole. just make sure to keep the temp of the jar the same as the temp as it is outside or of the pond.
Good luck.
2006-07-18 13:10:56 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
No, don't change the water! Tadpoles eat algae that grows in the water. They will starve if you provide them with "clean" water. All the water needs is a little circulation (not very much)to keep the oxygen levels high enough. You can add tap water to keep the level up but only if it has no chlorine in it. If your community chlorinates your drinking water(most do) then you need to let it stand in a container for a day or so to let the chlorine dissipate. A wide mouth jar or flat pan which allows the water to have a lot of surface area with the air is best for degassing tap water. Or you could just buy distilled water, which is essentially rainwater, or you could get some water from a local pond or creek and use that. It takes about a month to 6 weeks for the little frogs to hop away(they are so cute) I have done this myself and it is fun to see nature in action. Don't let them get sucked into your pump!! Protect the opening with some screen or nylon stocking or the like.
2006-07-18 15:34:55 · answer #2 · answered by Sciencenut 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tadpoles would typically do better in murky, or dirty water. Many tadpoles eat algae or any type of plant or animal matter in the water, so if algae is growing on the sides of the pond, they will have plenty of food. If the water is too clean, it also exposes them to predators, like herons, and raccoons.
I have raised toad tadpoles before inside a fish bowl, toads are very hardy little amphibians. I raised them on a diet of ground beef, and boiled lettuce. If you wanted to feed these little critters and help them grow a little faster, you could always add some lettuce to your pond, the only problem is that this will cause the algae to grow as well, as the lettuce rots.
Adding water to keep the water level up is a good idea. The chlorine in tap water wont affect them, they will be just fine.
Good Luck!
hope that helped a little!
2006-07-19 01:35:55 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the frogs that layed the eggs are living, you shouldn't have to worry about the tadpoles. Or move them. They should be just fine :)
2006-07-18 12:32:54 · answer #4 · answered by little_gardener_24 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you leave them alone, they will do fine.
2006-07-18 19:21:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋