The last couple of years I've had TP added to my pond with the idea that they would control the algae and help feed my LMB. But I'm thinking about not adding TP in 2018, as they may be doing more harm than good.

Two reasons. First, the TP have NOT fattened the bass. At least, not the 95 percent LMB which stunt when they are small. Maybe they help the few that grow larger, but even that is uncertain.

Second, my pond lacks cover & is relatively infertile. Small BG have a hard time making it, both in terms of food and a place to avoid being eaten.

If no TP, then I do get some algae. With TP, it quickly is eaten. Thus, no cover for YOY BG.

I'm trying to think this through, and clearly I need to fertilize more & put in cover. But maybe TP are doing more harm than good.

Thoughts from those more knowledgeable than myself?

Last edited by anthropic; 12/15/17 08:00 PM.
7ac 2015 CNBG RES FHM 2016 TP FLMB 2017 NLMB GSH L 2018 TP & 70 HSB PK 2019 TP RBT 2020 TFS TP 25 HSB 250 F1,L,RBT -206 2021 TFS TP GSH L,-312 2022 GSH TP CR TFS RBT -234, 2023 BG TP TFS NLMB, -160