Ultrasonic Algae Control

It may seem far-fetched and somewhat space age to talk about using ultrasound waves to control algae in a pond, but the reality is, this type of treatment can work very well!

Generally speaking we prefer to use ultrasonic units to control algae in larger water (ponds of 1/4 acre on up) simply because dollar for dollar they can make the treatment quite affordable when compared to treating a pond for many months or years with chemicals.

Ultrasound technology works by sending sound waves through the water which are precisely tuned to the vibrational frequencies of most algae types. When the sonic wave makes contact with the algae, the cells of the algae begin to vibrate and with continued agitation, the cell wall or air bladder of the algae cell will rupture and the algae will die.

This provides a non-chemical option to control many algae types found in ponds which is safe for fish, aquatic wildlife, and the environment.

Some of the algae species affected by ultrasound treatment...

Virtually all of these algae species are vulnerable to the ultrasonic waves and vibrations. Control times may vary due to conditions in the pond, the amount of algae present and other factors.

Algae types that ultrasound control is partically effective...

Control of the following algae types may take longer and can sometimes require additional tools to assist the ultrasound. Products like beneficial bacteria, aeration, and pond dye, in combination will frequently produce better results.

• Microcystis Colonial Algae (produces a gelatinous mass and harder to control in larger colonies, 75% ultrasound effectiveness) 
• Pithophora (Cotton-ball Roaming Algae, produces hard cell walls and can take extended time periods for any degree of control.
• Cylindrospermopsis Raciborskii (free roaming algae, light driven, 75% ultrasound effectiveness)

Algae types resistent to ultrasound treatment...

These algae types are not controlled with ultrasonc systems either due to the structure of the cells or plant, or it may be free roaming to the degree that it can evade the sound waves in order to minimize their effects.

• Chara (mimics the habits of vascular plants) 
• Nitella (mimics the habits of vascular plants, less rigid structure than Chara)
• Euglena (mimics a Protozoa, free swimming and light driven)
• Pediastrum (multi-celled algae in three stages; 8 celled, 16 celled, 32 celled)
• Oscillatoria (free roaming algae, resembles and moves like a green worm)
• Cladophora (or any true branching filamentous algae)

Not sure of what type of algae you have in your pond or if ultrasound would be a good investment?

We now offer a trial/rental program for all sizes of ponds. Save money and find out for sure if ultrasound technology can help! Click here to learn more.

Listed below you'll find Sonic Solutions models that will suit almost any size of pond.