Will copper or brass pipes in a pond negatively affect the fish?
by Rgo13838060
+1
I want to put a water feature in my pond. I have some brass or copper pipe. Will it hurt the fish?
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Most metals will release iron into the water which will eventually harm any aquatic life. I would not use it in the water. White PVC is the recommended material to move water in a koi pond. If you have something made of metal and want to use it as a water feature, make sure it is above the water level so it doesn't leach iron into the water. Also the size of the pond and how often you do a water change will affect the level of iron in the water. Check watergardenersbible.com if you have any questions.
Brass and copper are very durable around water, that is why they are used in plumbing, heating and on boats. They tarnish but don't corrode like other metals. It is hard to believe that copper/brass could be more toxic than plastic.
PVC made for plumbing drinking water should be fine.
Unpainted, when exposed to UV, it will break down and become brittle and therefore I would paint what is above the water line, if it’s not covered up by the metal parts on top.
You will get metals in the pond water. I suggest using pvc, some can be painted a copper color (above the water line)