vijver

A vijver is a small to medium-sized freshwater body characterized by still or slow-moving water, and is typically shallower than a lake. The term is Dutch for pond and is used for both natural and artificial water bodies.

Natural ponds form in glacial basins, river floodplains, or karst depressions, where water collects and remains still. Artificial ponds are created for ornamental gardens, irrigation storage, fish farming, flood control, or landscape design.

Ecology: Ponds host a diverse community of aquatic plants such as water lilies and emergent reeds, as well as animals including frogs, newts, dragonflies, water beetles, and waterfowl. Water depth, nutrient levels and shading shape the habitat and water quality.

Management: To maintain water quality and biodiversity, ponds may be aerated or dredged, invasive species controlled, and vegetation managed. Buffer strips of vegetation around the edge help filtration and provide habitat for wildlife.

Use and culture: In the Netherlands and other parts of Europe, ponds are common features in rural landscapes, gardens, and parks. Properly managed ponds support biodiversity while serving purposes such as aesthetics, recreation, irrigation, and water storage.