Both the 4 to 1 forage poundage ratio and the 10 to 1 stocking ratio for LMB/BG ponds is old info based on Co-op Extension data. The poundage info is based on an ongoing pond not a start up. That is maintain 4 times the poundage in forage as in predators. By definition if you keep those #s static the LMB will be well fed. The problem is keeping any aspect static as the pond is a dynamic biological model. It has been referred to a trying to balance on a knife edge between 2 unstable states being LMB crowded on one hand and BG crowded on the other. Both tend to get out of balance as conditions change.

Newer information on stocking (reported in PB mag - Cutting Edge column) from recent studies shows best results for avoiding LMB crowded status soon after stocking in southern ponds based on a 30 to 1 stocking ratio rather than the old standard 10 to 1.

Feeding and fertilization will greatly effect both of these variables. So will a naturally productive water body. Its all energetics.

Last edited by Bill Cody; 01/17/18 05:29 PM. Reason: spell correct