How to Separate New Small Fish in a Pond

Introducing a small fish into a pond is a dangerous endeavor because larger fish may see the small fish as prey and eat it before it has time to grow. You can build a barrier to keep the little fish separate from the big ones while it remains in the same pond. The enclosure must be large enough for a growing fish or you will run into health problems. Learn about the growth of your small fish to determine the fish's average size of growth rate so you can set aside a proper environment.

Things You'll Need

  • Shovel
  • Breeder box
  • Gravel
  • Fish food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a mesh breeder box appropriate for your type of fish. Record the width and height of the mesh box for later use.

    • 2

      Search the bank of the pond for a relatively flat and deep section with a firm sand or stone base. If you can't find a suitable location, dig out a square section as wide and deep as your mesh breeder box.

    • 3

      Clean out the breeder box before you set it into the pond. Rinse the mesh with warm water.

    • 4

      Set the breeder box into the pond in the flat section. The edges of the breeder box should rest 1 inch higher than the water level so your fish can't escape. Fill the bottom of the breeder box with a 1-inch-thick layer of gravel so it doesn't tip over or float off.

    • 5

      Monitor the box overnight before you put in a fish. The waiting process ensures that the box's footing is secure and the sand beneath it will not give way.

    • 6

      Release your small fish directly into the breeder box. Pour fish food directly into the breeder box.