What is biofilm?
You might not be familiar with the word, but you’ve seen biofilm many times. Biofilm is a thin, slimy layer of bacteria that forms on the surface, in this case, of a pond or lake. It gets into your pipes and drains and can consume your irrigation system.
Biofilm is in every irrigation system. It doesn’t discriminate. If the biofilms are mature enough, they can form in as little as minutes. Another fun fact, because biofilms are pathogens, they aren’t easily eradicated.
How can you tell the difference between biofilm and an oil spill?
Biofilm can be mistaken for algae bloom or an oil spill. It looks greasy and sits on the surface of the water body.
Biofilms come together on the surface of the water when algae (plant) or an animal life dies at a faster rate than the naturally occurring bacteria can degrade it.
How does it affect my pond or lake?
It’s difficult to get ahead of biofilm in regards of getting rid of it. Because it can form so quickly, it can be hard to catch. Biofilm and pond algae are treated differently, so it can be confusing as to what needs to be done.
How do I get rid of it?
There is no set way to get rid of biofilm. However, you can begin to incorporate a plan to remove or burn off the nutrients causing the biofilm. Bottom aeration can be one of the quickest ways of reducing biofilms in ponds and lakes.
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