Tadpole Deaths in Small Ponds: Predators and Fish Options

5 Green Frog Tadpoles Found Dead on Walkway

40-gal and 100-gal ponds. Tadpoles dumped on land—likely raccoon, cat, or bird. Net helps but must be secure.

Fish for 40-Gal Pond (No Pump/Filter)

• Summer only (cold winters): Guppies, platies, paradise fish, zebra danios, white cloud mountain minnows.
• Overwintering (if deep enough & aerated): Rosy red minnows, mosquito fish (Gambusia).
• Avoid: Goldfish (too messy, need space), koi.
• Fry grow-out: Raise goldfish fry summer, remove before winter.

Key Point

Without filtration, stock very lightly. Plants (floaters, submerged) are essential for oxygen and waste uptake. Feed sparingly.