Which is more effective to rid pond algae? Barley straw/pellets or UV sterilizer?

Question

I would like to know before investing in an expensive UV light. Which is safer for fish/plants, and which works better?

Answer 1

UV sterilizer hands down. You have to remember that the sterilizer needs very slow water flow to work effectively and you need to change the bulb every 12 months. But, as long as it is used properly, your pond will be crystal clear. You'll be able to count pebbles on the bottom.

Answer 2

I would have to say it depends on which type of algae you are dealing with - attached or free-floating (green water). A UV sterlilzer only works on the algae/spores which pass through it. It's great for controlling the free-floating forms, because they can be drawn through the sterilizer with a pump, but they has little effect on algae that is attached to the sides of your pond (other than to kill the spores and keep new algae from growing.

If you only have attached algae, neither one will kill it, as barley straw only works to prevent new algae from growing.

Some better options for you (depending on the size of your pond) would be to control the the light by adding floating plants, or those with floating leaves to shade the algae and the nutrient levels by cleaning out all debris and doing partial water changes to lower the nitrate and phosopate concentrations - pond plants can help here as well by competing with the algae for nutrients, just don't overfertilize the plants (algae uses the same nutrients) - only use about 1/3 to 1/2 of the suggested amount.

Answer 3

Barely straw will help control the growth of new algae, but will not remove algae from pond. The best means of control in lined and filtered pond is control of the nutrients the algae needs, that is fish waste and direct sunlight. Barring that the UV sterilizer is the better way to go.

MM