Space Age Algae Control

        By: Nicholas L. Bott, CAC, CIT

Algae Basics

The Holy Grail for ponds has long been the riddance of slimy, green filamentous algae. Spirogyra is the most common genus of ‘string algae', so named for the helical or spiral arrangement of the chloroplasts inside its cell walls. The cell walls are non-branching and connect end-to-end creating large, green mats in and around waterfalls, streams and marginal areas of water features. There are more than 400 species of Spirogyra found in ponds and freshwater areas around the world.

The problem of single cell algae, frequently referred to as "pea soup algae," has been solved for quite some time through the technology of ultraviolet lights and biological filters. But never has there been a product solution for string algae that did not require regular doses of some sort of algaecide or oxidizing agent - until now.

Technology That's Out of This World

Studies have shown that silver is the best natural broad spectrum germicidal in existence. It acts as a bactericide, fungicide and antibiotic, killing virtually every disease-causing organism within minutes. So in the 1960's, NASA developed an electrolytic silver ionizer to purify drinking water in the Apollo spacecraft and they continue to use silver for the CO² chemisorptions process on board the Challenger Space Shuttles and the International Space Station. Water garden suppliers have now been able to harness that same proven technology and created revolutionary new product. Atlantic’s Triton Ionizer is an electronic water clarifier solution for all new and existing natural pools & spas, ponds, and water features. The Triton Ionizer is simple to install, safe for fish and plants, not toxic to any animals that may drink from the water feature, and eliminates unsightly water conditions without the use of chemicals.

How The Triton Ionizer System  Works

The automatic control panel sends signals that slowly dissolve a replaceable, self-cleaning copper, silver & zinc metal alloy probe inserted into the path of flowing water. The outermost atoms in the metal alloy probe lose an electron, creating a positive ion. The positive ion attempts to flow from one of the probe's bars to the other and is swept away by the flow of water where the ion can begin to treat the water and prevent debris build-up.

Features & Benefits

• Creates crystal clear water without the use of chemicals.
• Treats ponds up to 25,000 gallons and costs less than $1 per month in electricity to operate.
• Can be installed in ANY new or existing pond, stream, waterfall, or decorative water feature.
• The probe is self cleaning, using reverse polarity to prevent scale and debris build-up on the probe's bars, and can be installed directly into the water feature's plumbing or hidden underwater in an area with significant water flow.
• An electronic indicator automatically notifies you when the probe needs replacing. The probe typically lasts one to two seasons depending on usage, quantity of water and water parameters of the water feature.
• The control panel features an easy touch pad which makes it simple to adjust the amount of ionization for the specific size of your feature.
• Perfectly safe for all aquatic plants, fish & animals that may drink from the water feature.

As with any new product, we had our apprehensions at first. But after extensive testing by The Pond Clinic service team, the results have been amazing. The Triton Ionizer truly does drastically reduce pond maintenance by controlling string algae growth, and it provides crystal clear water without the use of chemicals. The Triton Ionizer reasonably priced at $529.98 and is now available as a regular stock item at our retail store. If you would prefer to have a Triton Ionizer System professionally installed this spring, feel free to contact The Pond Clinic Service Department at 613-225-7663 ext.2 or service@pondclinic.com.