Pond

A pond is a small, standing body of freshwater, usually shallower than a lake. Ponds may form naturally in depressions or be created by human activities such as damming, excavation, or irrigation works. Because light can often reach the bottom across much of a pond, rooted aquatic plants frequently grow around the edges and in the littoral zone.

Size and depth vary widely, and there is no universal boundary that separates ponds from lakes. Common distinctions reference maximum depth, surface area, and ecological characteristics, but these criteria differ by region and usage. Ponds can be temporary or permanent and may fluctuate with seasonal rainfall and evaporation.

Ecology: Ponds host a range of organisms, including aquatic plants, algae, zooplankton, invertebrates, amphibians, and fish. The littoral zone near the shore is typically productive, supporting macroinvertebrates and vegetation, while deeper waters often remain clearer and less productive. Ponds are sensitive to nutrient inputs, which can drive algal blooms and alter species composition.

Human uses and functions: Ponds provide irrigation water, stock watering, and sometimes flood control. They are common in gardens and landscapes as ornamental features and can contribute to biodiversity by offering habitat and ecological corridors in human-dominated areas. Water quality, sedimentation, and shoreline vegetation influence ecological health.

Management and restoration: Ponds can require management to control eutrophication, invasive species, sediment buildup, and vector breeding. Restoration approaches include planting native vegetation, dredging or sediment removal, and watershed-scale efforts to reduce nutrient inflow. The ecological value of a pond depends on its size, depth, hydroperiod, and surrounding land use.