Guide to Floating Pond Fish Domes – Are They Worth it? [Updated]
If you have a fish pond, you may have wondered if there is a better way for you to see your fish–a way for you to relax and not have to stand peering into your pond, just waiting on them to briefly surface. We know just the thing for you!
A floating pond fish dome will give you the ability to see your fish from up close, no matter where you’re sitting, so sit back and relax. Let us tell you all about this innovative method for taking your love for your pond to the next level!
How Do Fish Domes Work?
You may wonder what exactly a fish dome is and why you need one in your pond. Simply put, a fish dome offers a way to see your fish magnified and in detail as they stay unbothered in their own environment.
The transparent part of the product is made out of plexiglass, which is a lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative to glass. This makes the dome safe for your pond’s inhabitants throughout weather conditions and day to day wear and tear. You can see an example of a floating fish dome in action below:
Making up the outside of the dome portion, there is a floating ring that allows the plexiglass section to stay buoyant. Food can be placed underneath the dome in order to encourage your fish to explore the world outside of the pond! Fish domes are a great way to see your fish in a brand-new light – up close and personal.
Benefits of Pond Fish/Koi Domes
As incredible as a floating pond fish dome sounds, there are still some benefits that you may not have considered:
1. It’s easier to keep an eye on the health of your fish
Diseases in fish can go undetected quite easily! In order to see spots of disease on your pond fish, you have to get close, very close, and a lot of the time that isn’t an option. The diseased portion could blend in with a variety of other organisms in the pond and delay any potential treatment. Imagine if your fish was magnified and how much easier adverse health could be seen! If you’re looking to keep a closer and more watchful eye on your fish, a floating pond fish dome is a great way to do so.
2. It gets your fish used to their surroundings
Do your fish hide every time you come out to the pond? They may just not be quite used to you! If you think about it, the world above the water is foreign to them and maybe they just need a little bit of exposure. The fish dome will help with that! The fish get a chance to come up to the surface and take a look around, letting them become more confident in their surroundings.
3. Fish domes make great talking points
Your guests most likely have seen a pond before, but perhaps not one with a large bubble-like apparatus in it. This is your chance to talk all about your pond and the fish in it. Maybe while you’re talking, one might come up in the dome to say hello!
4. They can be very relaxing to watch
Imagine lounging and relaxing beside your pond as you watch the fish take turns swimming up into the dome and getting a glimpse above the water. Without having to move, you’ll be able to see full glimpses of your fish – what more could you want?
Considerations When Buying a Fish Dome
A floating pond fish dome can be an amazing and unique touch to your pond, but there are some things that you should consider before you purchase one:
1. Are you willing to clean it?
It may go without saying that the large bubble dome in your pond will show grime quite easily, but this shouldn’t be a deterrent. When you do a regular clean-up of your fish pond, give the floating pond fish dome a quick scrub too! Keeping the device clear of algae and other debris is key for being able to enjoy the dome to its full potential.
2. How big is your pond?
If your pond is on the larger size, a floating pond fish dome may not be the best option for you. Consider that as the surface area of your pond increases, the less of a chance you’ll have to see your fish swim around inside of the bubble! This device is best for smaller garden ponds that are conveniently located where you can sit back, relax, and admire everything your space has to offer. On the other hand, your pond can’t be too small or the dome won’t fit! For example, fish domes are not a suitable option for container ponds or mini ponds. Take some time to measure your pond and ensure that you have a happy medium.
3. Is your pond in an area where the dome can be seen & enjoyed?
If you’re going to purchase a floating fish dome, you want it to be somewhere that people can enjoy it! If your pond isn’t in an area where you or other people often go, this product may not be beneficial and it may cause problems! The magnification of the dome may attract predators, harm plants, or allow your fish to get too comfortable with their surroundings.
4. Keep domes away from delicate plant species!
When making the decision to get a floating pond fish dome, you’ll want to keep in mind your floating plants! If you have any that are more delicate in nature, consider placing your dome elsewhere or relocating the delicate plants before you place it.
5. Domes could increase predator interest
Are predators a problem in your area? This is something to consider before buying a dish dome as it will magnify your fish and their bright colors. Although the fish will be safe inside of the dome, once they exit, they will be fair game for predators! Before you buy a fish dome, just know that this could become a problem and have a plan for if this arises. Alternatively, you can also look into these methods for deterring pond predators.
Which Fish Dome Do We Recommend? (Velda Pond Dome Review)
Does a fish dome sound like something you need in your life? Can you already feel the excitement of seeing your fish up close and personal? We would love to recommend the Velda floating viewing dome! This product is the most trusted dome of its kind on the market and gives amazing results. The Velda floating fish dome works to make viewing your fish an experience unlike any other by giving you ample opportunity to see your fish at different angles.
Specifications
The Velda floating viewing dome (large) measurements are 70 x 36.5 cm, with a 46 cm diameter dome. The measurements for the medium size are 56 x 24 cm, with a 36 cm diameter dome. This product will come with the following: acrylic glass dome, floating ring with fabric cover, ring profile, and screws. For your convenience, there is an available instruction manual for piecing the product together.
Basic Features
- A large acrylic glass dome that magnifies fish
- A floating ring that helps to keep the dome above the surface
- Easy to clean surfaces
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Final Thoughts
Pond and fish lovers from all over the world are enjoying fish domes and the excitement that they bring. Are you interested in one for your pond? Do you already have one and want to share your experience? Let us know what you think in the comments below!