Artificial Pond Water

• 1. Prepare a stock solution containing 175 g of NaCl and 35 g of CaCl₂ in 2 L of distilled/deionized water.

• 2. Prepare a second stock solution containing 5 g of NaHCO₃ in 2 L of distilled/deionized water.

• 3. To 70 L (44 gal) of distilled/deionized water in an HDPE plastic barrel on casters (e.g., Rubbermaid Commercial Products) add 280 mL of each stock solution and 25 mL of NovAqua water conditioner (Kordon).

  • This “water conditioner” buffers the pH, adds other electrolytes, and removes chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals.

• 4. Keep the barrel lidded and the contents aerated.

Prepare fresh every 3–4 d.

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