Introducing tropical fish to wild ponds

[Supergeorge123]

So I have a few wild ponds on my property and I have been thinking about introducing some tropical fish to them by setting up some areas of thermal refuge for them in the winter. I am not sure how well they would be able to locate the areas of thermal refuge though in order to have a sustainable population. Also I am not sure of the best heating method to keep some of the water warm enough. The coldest it can get around here is single digits but I did see -5 f once. What do you guys think?

 

[Coryloach]

I actually read a scientific study not that long ago although I didn't keep track of its name. It actually said that as long as fish are well acclimated first, then they "learn" to locate the water with temperature that suits them best.....However, -5F sounds extremely low if you're to manage to keep a refuge consistently.

 

[Supergeorge123]

I actually read a scientific study not that long ago although I didn't keep track of its name. It actually said that as long as fish are well acclimated first, then they "learn" to locate the water with temperature that suits them best.....However, -5F sounds extremely low if you're to manage to keep a refuge consistently.

That's good to know. The -5 only happened once in my life so not very common but it still does get cold. I have been contemplating setting something up in a deeper spot so the ice would insulate the warmer water underneath

 

[Deadliestviper7]

That's good to know. The -5 only happened once in my life so not very common but it still does get cold. I have been contemplating setting something up in a deeper spot so the ice would insulate the warmer water underneath

Redfish would be a good option provided you can provide them with a area at least 45 degrees f, some fish such as arowanaz don't know how to find those warm temps, others like tilapia do.

 

[Supergeorge123]

I am actual going for full on tropical fish which might be a challenge but that is why I want to do it. My biggest challenge is finding the most efficient way of keeping x cubic feet of water at y degrees year round.

 

[Wailua Boy]

Most people have a hard time heating in a cost efficient manner... Maybe be better in a attached greenhouse, where you could recycle warm air; if you have you heart set on keeping true tropical species.

 

[Deadliestviper7]

Or bring them in before it gets colder, likely more cost effective.