Barley Straw

• Bales of barley straw placed in an algae-filled pond may help control algae overgrowth. Barley straw releases a compound that prevents the growth of new algae. As old algae die off and new algae grow at a reduced rate, the algae start to get back in balance.
  
  

Fish

• In some states, such as in Texas, algae-eating fish help control algae problems. Triploid grass carp help control filamentous algae. Another fish species, tilapia, works in warmer regions of the country where the fish help eat the algae in larger ponds. Permits to use the fish may be required by the county or state.
  
  

Floating Plants

• Floating plants help combat algae by using resources such as nutrients and light that algae also require. Depriving pond algae of these resources helps keep it under control while providing fish with shelter and roots to improve their habitat. Using native plant species stops the plants from taking over the pond and creating a new problem.