Guys around here recommend 10 per acre. I went with 7 to start with. I have a clear pond that has a maximum depth of 6 feet, so I assume I will have aquatic vegetation always trying to grow since sunlight can penetrate the entire pond bottom. I really don't want to use dye in my pond, I have never really been a fan of the look with dye. I don't mind some vegetation, but right now there is no way I can use a trolling motor. If I knew for sure the grass carp will eat the pondweed and get it under control, I would put in a few more. When they get big, I can always pull a few out (even though it would be hard to do).