Mosquito fish provide an organic and interesting solution to the problem of mosquito control around your backyard pond. Mosquito control isn't the only thing these fish offer. This voracious feeder will also consume other annoying insect larvae and algae growing in your pond. Using mosquito-eating fish in your pond is a great way to keep it insect free and beautiful without restoring to harsh chemicals.
Getting to Know the Mosquito Fish
Typically, a Mosquito Fish lives about two to three years. They bear live young, up to four broods a year, and they eat practically anything. One fish can eat more than 100 pounds of mosquito larvae per day.
It is easy to distinguish male mosquito fish from female; the males are smaller, thinner and have a pointed rear fin.
Adding Mosquito Fish to Your Pond
If you are placing mosquito fish into an established pond it is not necessary to purchase special food. They will feed off the mosquito larvae found in the pond. It's best not to feed the fish in a pond, as fish waste and uneaten food can cause high levels of nitrogen and ammonia, throwing off the chemical balance of the water; however, tropical fish flakes may be needed if you add these fish to your pond before mosquito breeding season.
Mosquito fish require a sheltered breeding environment. Generally, this means a cover of floating plants for the little fish to hide in. If there is no cover available, the larger fish will eat the smaller fish.
This is also true for grown mosquito fish. If other species of fish are present in the pond, adult mosquito fish need adequate vegetation to hide in or they will become a larger fish's meal.
Mosquito fish are cold tolerant, but only in a pond more than 18" deep. If temperatures drop below 41 degrees Fahrenheit, the mosquito fish will go to the bottom of the pond and become inactive. They prefer a sunny pond and won't thrive in a heavily shaded pond.
It is important to avoid using copper pipes or fittings in the pond, as it can kill the fish. If your pond does have copper pipes, apply waterproof paint over the pipes to protect the fish.
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