How to Care for a Tadpole Pond

Raising tadpoles is popular in ponds. Their popularity can be attributed to the aqua pet big three "e's:" enjoyment, education and ease. Tadpoles are fascinating creatures that undergo a transformation from fish to frog in a short amount of time. To ensure tadpoles' good health and development, the very best environment is to provide a dedicated outdoor pond with as many natural elements as possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Waders
  • Waterproof boots
  • Waterproof gloves
  • Aquarium thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Study up on exactly what species of frog your pond attracts and the kind of habitat these native frogs who will lay eggs and provide you with tadpoles like. Find this information from your state, county or city wildlife or natural resources departments or agriculture extension offices.

    • 2

      Check to see that the pond's slopes are intact. This allows the metamorphs (tadpoles turning into frogs) who have grown legs, and the spawning frogs providing you with tadpoles, to easily get in and out of the pond. If you do not have a flexible pond liner to form a slope, cluster rocks, logs or other natural items at the pond's edge to provide a gently sloping natural ramp that rises above the waterline.

    • 3

      Check on the plants that provide cover and shade and attract insects in and around the pond to ensure they are plentiful and healthy. If there is a lack of sheltering plants, visit a nursery that specializes in shore plants and plant an adequate amount of shrubs and ground cover around the pond. Don't mow the grass that surrounds your pond to provide extra cover. Replace any unhealthy or dead plants.

    • 4

      Check the water temperature. It should be between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit) to maximize tadpole development. If the temperature is too warm, pollution can be a problem.

    • 5

      Minimize the number of predators that tadpole ponds attract. This includes pets like dogs and cats, and wildlife such as raccoons and diving or shorebirds. If you have a fence around the pond, check to see that there are no openings in it.

    • 6

      Change any meat or fish fry food fed daily to the metamorphs who have become carnivorous after growing legs. This practice helps to avoid polluting the water.

    • 7

      Check on the plastic liner of the pond to ensure there are no holes or tears to prevent water from escaping. Confirm that it has remained firmly anchored in place. If it needs additional anchoring, pile rocks and gravel on the edges every couple of feet apart.

    • 8

      Remove any sharp objects in the pond that may harm the tadpoles' delicate membranes and any objects that may release any harmful chemicals when exposed to water.