Algae can be a major problem for small bodies of water and because it can take over so quickly, it needs to be controlled in a safe and effective manner. Most people are familiar with the historically used algaecide, Copper Sulfate. Copper Sulfate has been used in ponds for generations now with few changes.
Chelated copper works as a good or better than copper sulfate. Chelated copper is effective on both filamentous and planktonic algae in a wide range of fresh water applications. Upon application, it starts to work immediately and works extremely well—it’s far more effective than copper sulfate.
When applied, it stays active (suspended in the water column) longer, rather than immediately sinking to the bottom. This allows you to use less copper and take a more precise route to dealing with the problem.
Chelated copper uses less elemental copper than copper sulfate.
Technical aspects of chelated copper are:
- Increases infusion (passive transport not facilitated active) of copper into the target algae biomass to act on multiple internal modes of action and elicit greater algaecide activity
- Provides effectiveness independent of environmental conditions, growth characteristics, and water chemistries
- Increases the stability of copper in the water column by decreasing the potential for precipitation with inorganic compounds
- Can have a greater affinity for the target species and control at lower treatment copper concentrations
- Documented decreased toxicity to non-target fish/invertebrate species
- SePRO algaecides are designed to enhance toxicity as well and uptake by the target biomass, subsequently decreasing available copper to non-target organisms and decreasing environmental burden
In addition, the body of water treated with chelated copper can be used for swimming, fishing, watering livestock, irrigating turf, or ornamental plants right after application. As you can see, these benefits make chelated copper a more technical choice for your algae control needs.
Tim Bitz is Manager of Direct to Consumer Business for SePRO Corporation. He blogs about common water quality problems that consumers face at StewardsOfWater.com.
Now serving Greenville SC, Spartanburg SC, Asheville NC, Charlotte NC, Winston-Salem NC, & Greensboro NC areas.
Get started. Become a member today!
