I agree with Eric on his comparison of running an engine at high RPM. Even if water quality isn't the present cause of mortality. It's going to be at some point unless he can make substantial water changes and monitor the water quality on multiple parameters. Ammonia is one in particular he should be concerned about. Though it probably isn't the cause of recent mortality. We haven't mentioned this yet, but the water quality may provide enough additional stress to shorten lifespans. Where in clearer, cleaner water they might have lived longer (here assuming it was old age that killed them). For LMB less than 8 years of age and exceeding 12", perhaps 10% is a reasonable expectation of annual mortality (in Texas). If he is carrying around 120 per acre, 10% mortality (12) would be normal.
Snipe, there is a lot of fish in that 3/4 acre. 331 lbs/acre of LMB. If feeding on BG that are produced in pond they need 1436 lbs of consumed BG every year for maintenance. With GSH they need 1228 lbs every year. Blended it's something in between those two weights. Just counting the LMB and Trout ... around 531 lbs/acre. Are there BG? Generally, LMB (if not eating feed directly), will balance with BG between 12% to 18% of the BG+LMB standing weight. So if BG are present, maybe over a ton per acre for the total standing weight? What do you think Snipe, what are your thoughts on the total standing weight? Is a ton per acre of standing weight possible in that pond?
