Discover a natural and effective solution for maintaining aquariums and fish tanks with Aquatic Barley Straw Pellets. Our innovative pellets harness the power of barley straw to effortlessly combat cloudy green water in small fish ponds and similar environments. Offering a user-friendly and eco-conscious approach, these pellets are designed to improve water clarity with ease.
Rooted in History
Barley straw’s remarkable ability to control algae growth traces back to ancient times, even as far as the Middle Ages. Back then, societies turned to barley straw to counter cyanobacteria outbreaks in their drinking water sources. An interesting historical note is that people consumed liquor derived from barley soaked in water, recognizing its ability to eliminate harmful bacteria[1]. Fast forward to 1980, where a farmer’s accidental use of rotting straw led to a surprising reduction in algae growth the following year[2]. Through careful development, we now understand that decomposing barley straw in well-aerated water releases compounds that effectively hinder the growth of various forms of algae, from unicellular to filamentous[3]. Our Aquatic Barley Straw Pellets continue this tradition, utilising 100% Australian barley straw and tailored to suit local water conditions.
Safety First
Rest assured, Aquatic Barley Straw Pellets are entirely safe for use around fish, plants, and people. Their natural composition ensures worry-free application.
The Science Behind It
The secret lies in the ideal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio found in barley straw. As the pellets break down, they naturally consume available nitrogen and phosphorus in the water. This essential process directly reduces the conditions conducive to algae growth[4].
Timing for Optimal Results
To maximise effectiveness, it’s recommended to apply barley straw pellets before algae growth takes hold[5]. The pellets release potent anti-algal agents that excel at preventing algae development, making them particularly effective at halting growth in its tracks[5]. For unparalleled results, consider combining Aquatic Barley Straw Pellets with our Barley Straw Extract – together, they create a potent duo that delivers enduring clarity to your water ecosystem.
References
[1] Wefer, G, Berger, W.H, Behre, K.E. and Jansen, E (2013). Climate Development and History of the North Atlantic Realm. Springer Berlin Heidelberg.
[2] Ferrier, M.D, Butler, B.R, Terlizzi, Sr. D.E and Lacouture, R.V (2005). The effects of barley straw (Hordeum vulgare) on the growth of freshwater algae. Bioresour Technol. vol. 96(16), pp. 1788-95.
[3] Pillinger, J.M, Cooper, J.A and Ridge, I (1994). Role of Phenolic Compounds in The Antialgal Activity of Barley Straw. Journal of Chemical Ecology. Vol. 20(7)
[4] Erickson, A (2020). Managing blue-green algae on farms in Western Australia. Available: https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/livestock-biosecurity/managing -blue-green-algae-farms-western-australia
[5] B. Prf and Newman, J (2012). Centre for Aquatic Plant Management INFORMATION SHEET 1: CONTROL OF ALGAE WITH BARLEY STRAW.
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