Fish pond

A fish pond or fishpond is a special small pond used for growing fish. It is like a tiny pond, a small artificial lake, or a retention basin filled with fish for many reasons. Some fish ponds are used in aquaculture for fish farming to grow fish to eat. Others are made for fun, so people can go recreational fishing. And some are just for looks, used as pretty ornamental decorations.

Fish ponds have been around for a long time. They were common in beautiful gardens in East Asian homes, like the famous Classical Gardens of Suzhou in China. In big places such as the Imperial Palace in Japan and the Gyeongbokgung Palace in South Korea, fish ponds helped make the area peaceful and nice. Long ago in Medieval Europe, monasteries and castles often had their own fish ponds to provide food.

History

Fish ponds have been used since the Middle Ages. For example, Charlemagne had plans for fish ponds in the eighth century, but they were still uncommon. As towns grew, fish ponds became more popular.

Fish ponds provided a steady food supply, especially when meat was not allowed to be eaten. Keeping fish ponds was hard and showed wealth, as only rich nobles and monasteries could afford them. Common fish in these ponds were carp and pike, which became popular from the 14th century onward.

Aquaculture

Fish ponds are used in aquaculture. They are common in many places, such as Canada, Europe (especially in the Czech Republic), Ireland, Hawaii in the United States, the Philippines, and East Asia, including Japan.

Fish ponds are also promoted in developing countries. They give food and income to small farmers. They can also help with irrigation and water for animals. Fish ponds bring many benefits to people and the economy.