Anyone who has ever run their hand over a stone underwater knows it: that smooth, slightly slippery coating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What at first looks like something that needs to be removed is often a completely natural biofilm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Over time, numerous microorganisms colonise permanently submerged stones, liners, plants and filter media. Together, they form a thin layer on the surface \u2013 and it is precisely this that feels slippery to us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This biofilm is part of the natural life in the pond. The microorganisms living within it take part in the breakdown of organic matter and the water's nutrient cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many biological filters also work on the same principle: they provide as much surface area as possible for microorganisms to colonise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The larger the colonisable surface area, the more space is fundamentally available for these microbiological processes. However, factors such as oxygen supply, water movement and the organic load of the pond are also crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No. The slightly slimy layer on a permanently submerged stone is not initially a reason to scrub the stone thoroughly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During intensive cleaning, not only is visible dirt removed, but also a portion of the biofilm that has grown there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The important distinction to make is this: a natural coating on surfaces underwater is quite different from conspicuous, thick, or floating layers on the water surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Such phenomena can indicate increased organic pollution, low water movement or unfavourable oxygen conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In short:<\/strong> A little bit of \u201eslime\u201c is all part of a vibrant pond. \ud83c\udf3f<\/p>\n\n\n\nFurther information & matching products<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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