{"product_id":"aquascape-pond-starter-bacteria","title":"Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria – Beneficial Bacteria for New Ponds \u0026 Spring Start-Up","description":"\u003c!-- =====================================================================\n     POND PRO DIRECT — PRODUCT PAGE BODY HTML  (VARIANT PRODUCT)\n     Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria — All Sizes\n     Variants: 8 oz #96013 | 16 oz #96014 | 32 oz #96015 | 1 gal #96008\n     Paste into the Shopify product DESCRIPTION (rich text \"\u003c\u003e\" \/ HTML view).\n     PREREQUISITE: create the 4 size variants + set 301 redirects FIRST.\n     Scoped under .ppd-bac so it cannot collide with theme CSS.\n     ===================================================================== --\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-bac\"\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  @import url('https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Montserrat:wght@500;600;700;800\u0026family=Source+Sans+3:wght@400;600;700\u0026display=swap');\n\n  .ppd-bac{\n    --navy:#145382; --navy-deep:#0c3a5e; --blue:#008FD1; --teal:#4EB4C2;\n    --ink:#22323f; --muted:#5a6b78; --soft:#f3f8fb; --soft2:#e9f3f9;\n    --line:#d7e6f0; --white:#ffffff; --good:#1e8e5a;\n    color:var(--ink);\n    font-family:\"Source Sans 3\",\"Segoe UI\",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;\n    font-size:17px; line-height:1.6; max-width:1080px; margin:0 auto;\n  }\n  .ppd-bac *{box-sizing:border-box;}\n  .ppd-bac h2,.ppd-bac h3,.ppd-bac h4{\n    font-family:\"Montserrat\",\"Segoe UI\",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;\n    color:var(--navy-deep); line-height:1.25; margin:0 0 .5em;}\n  .ppd-bac h2{font-size:1.5rem; font-weight:800; letter-spacing:-.01em;\n    padding-bottom:.4em; border-bottom:3px solid var(--teal); margin-top:2.1em;}\n  .ppd-bac h3{font-size:1.15rem; font-weight:700; margin-top:1.3em;}\n  .ppd-bac h4{font-size:1rem; font-weight:700; color:var(--blue);\n    text-transform:uppercase; letter-spacing:.04em; margin-top:1.1em;}\n  .ppd-bac p{margin:0 0 1em;}\n  .ppd-bac a{color:var(--blue); font-weight:600; text-decoration:none;}\n  .ppd-bac a:hover{text-decoration:underline;}\n  .ppd-bac strong{color:var(--navy-deep);}\n\n  .ppd-chips{display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:8px; margin:1.4em 0 .4em;}\n  .ppd-chip{display:inline-flex; align-items:center; gap:6px;\n    background:var(--soft2); color:var(--navy-deep); border:1px solid var(--line);\n    border-radius:999px; padding:7px 14px; font-size:.84rem; font-weight:700;\n    font-family:\"Montserrat\",sans-serif;}\n  .ppd-chip b{color:var(--blue);}\n\n  .ppd-why{list-style:none; padding:0; margin:1.1em 0;}\n  .ppd-why li{position:relative; padding:0 0 1em 1.9em; margin:0;}\n  .ppd-why li::before{content:\"✓\"; position:absolute; left:0; top:0; color:var(--white);\n    background:var(--teal); width:1.35em; height:1.35em; border-radius:50%;\n    display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:center; font-size:.85em; font-weight:700;}\n\n  .ppd-tablewrap{overflow-x:auto; margin:1.1em 0;}\n  .ppd-table{width:100%; border-collapse:collapse; font-size:.95rem; min-width:420px;}\n  .ppd-table th,.ppd-table td{text-align:left; padding:10px 14px; border-bottom:1px solid var(--line); vertical-align:top;}\n  .ppd-table thead th{background:var(--navy); color:#fff; font-family:\"Montserrat\",sans-serif; font-weight:700;}\n  .ppd-table tr:nth-child(even) td{background:#fbfdfe;}\n  .ppd-table .hl td{background:var(--soft2); font-weight:700;}\n\n  .ppd-note{background:var(--soft); border-left:5px solid var(--blue);\n    border-radius:0 10px 10px 0; padding:16px 20px; margin:1.3em 0;}\n  .ppd-note.warn{border-left-color:#c9a227; background:#fdfaf0;}\n\n  .ppd-sizes{display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(4,1fr); gap:12px; margin:1.1em 0;}\n  .ppd-stile{border:1px solid var(--line); border-radius:12px; padding:16px 12px; text-align:center; background:var(--white);}\n  .ppd-stile .sz{font-family:\"Montserrat\",sans-serif; font-weight:800; font-size:1.1rem; color:var(--navy-deep);}\n  .ppd-stile .tr{color:var(--muted); font-size:.88rem; margin:4px 0;}\n  .ppd-stile .sk{font-size:.78rem; font-weight:700; color:var(--blue); font-family:\"Montserrat\",sans-serif;}\n\n  .ppd-compare{display:grid; grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr; gap:16px; margin:1.1em 0;}\n  .ppd-cc{border:1px solid var(--line); border-radius:12px; padding:18px 20px; background:var(--white);}\n  .ppd-cc.this{border:2px solid var(--teal); background:var(--soft2);}\n  .ppd-cc h4{margin-top:0;}\n\n  .ppd-faq details{border:1px solid var(--line); border-radius:10px; margin:0 0 10px; background:var(--white); overflow:hidden;}\n  .ppd-faq summary{cursor:pointer; list-style:none; padding:14px 18px; font-family:\"Montserrat\",sans-serif;\n    font-weight:700; color:var(--navy-deep); display:flex; justify-content:space-between; align-items:center; gap:12px;}\n  .ppd-faq summary::-webkit-details-marker{display:none;}\n  .ppd-faq summary::after{content:\"+\"; color:var(--blue); font-size:1.4rem; font-weight:700; line-height:1;}\n  .ppd-faq details[open] summary{background:var(--soft); border-bottom:1px solid var(--line);}\n  .ppd-faq details[open] summary::after{content:\"–\";}\n  .ppd-faq .ans{padding:14px 18px;}\n  .ppd-faq .ans p:last-child{margin-bottom:0;}\n\n  .ppd-cta{background:linear-gradient(135deg,var(--navy) 0%,var(--navy-deep) 100%);\n    color:#eaf4fb; border-radius:14px; padding:22px 24px; margin:1.5em 0; text-align:center;}\n  .ppd-cta h3{color:#fff; margin-top:0;}\n  .ppd-cta p{color:#cfe3f1; margin-bottom:0;}\n  .ppd-tel{font-family:\"Montserrat\",sans-serif; font-weight:800; font-size:1.2rem; color:#fff; text-decoration:underline; white-space:nowrap;}\n\n  @media (max-width:760px){\n    .ppd-bac{font-size:16px;}\n    .ppd-sizes{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr);}\n    .ppd-compare{grid-template-columns:1fr;}\n    .ppd-bac h2{font-size:1.3rem;}\n  }\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ DESCRIPTION ============================ --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAquascape Pond Starter Bacteria\u003c\/strong\u003e is a concentrated liquid bacteria treatment that jump-starts your pond's biological ecosystem — the fastest way to get a \u003cstrong\u003enew pond\u003c\/strong\u003e or a \u003cstrong\u003espring start-up\u003c\/strong\u003e to clean, clear, healthy water. It seeds the beneficial bacteria that drive the nitrogen cycle, converting fish waste and ammonia into harmless compounds so algae and sludge have less to feed on. Available in \u003cstrong\u003efour sizes that treat from 5,000 up to 80,000 gallons\u003c\/strong\u003e per application, with a pump top that doses accurately at \u003cstrong\u003e1 pump per 100 gallons\u003c\/strong\u003e. Choose your size above.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is Aquascape's \u003cstrong\u003estart-up\u003c\/strong\u003e formula — use it when you fill a new pond, after a full clean-out, or as your water crosses 40°F in spring. It's completely \u003cstrong\u003esafe for fish, plants, pets, and wildlife\u003c\/strong\u003e, so there's no waiting period and no need to remove livestock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-chips\"\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e4 Sizes:\u003c\/b\u003e 8 oz–1 gal\u003c\/span\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003eTreats \u003cb\u003e5,000–80,000 gal\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e1 pump\u003c\/b\u003e \/ 100 gal\u003c\/span\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003eSafe for Fish \u0026amp; Pets\u003c\/span\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003ePump-Top Dosing\u003c\/span\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003eWorks above \u003cb\u003e40°F\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n  \u003cspan class=\"ppd-chip\"\u003eAquascape\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ WHAT IT DOES ============================ --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat Pond Starter Bacteria Does\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ppd-why\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEstablishes the biological ecosystem fast.\u003c\/strong\u003e Seeds beneficial bacteria colonies in your filter and on pond surfaces so the nitrogen cycle gets working quickly instead of over weeks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupports the nitrogen cycle.\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps break down ammonia and nitrite from fish waste into less-harmful nitrate, protecting fish during the vulnerable start-up window.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStarves algae and reduces sludge.\u003c\/strong\u003e By outcompeting nuisance organisms for nutrients, it helps limit green-water and string-algae flare-ups common in new and spring ponds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAccurate, mess-free dosing.\u003c\/strong\u003e The pump top meters exactly 100 gallons of treatment per pump — no measuring cups, no guesswork.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSafe for everything living in and around the pond.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fish, koi, plants, pets, and wildlife — no lockout period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ DOSING ============================ --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to Use \u0026amp; Dosing Chart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 pump per 100 gallons.  \u003cstrong\u003eHow often:\u003c\/strong\u003e for new ponds and spring start-up, apply once a week for two weeks.  \u003cstrong\u003eHow to:\u003c\/strong\u003e add to the area of the pond with the most circulation (near the waterfall or skimmer return), and aerate heavily for at least 24 hours after application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-tablewrap\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"ppd-table\"\u003e\n  \u003cthead\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePond Volume\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePumps per Application\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFull Start-Up (2 applications)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003c\/thead\u003e\n  \u003ctbody\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1 pump\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e250 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2–3 pumps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e500 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5 pumps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003ctr class=\"hl\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1,000 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10 pumps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2,000 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20 pumps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e40 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5,000 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50 pumps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n    \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10,000 gallons\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 pumps\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e200 pumps total\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-note\"\u003e\n  \u003cstrong\u003eSizing tip:\u003c\/strong\u003e The \"treats X gallons\" rating is per single application. A complete spring start-up is \u003cstrong\u003etwo\u003c\/strong\u003e applications a week apart — so a bottle's effective coverage for a full start-up cycle is about \u003cstrong\u003ehalf\u003c\/strong\u003e its rated gallons. Match the size to your pond using the chart below: for a typical 1,000-gallon backyard pond, even the 8 oz covers several start-up cycles.\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-note warn\"\u003e\n  \u003cstrong\u003eWater temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Most effective above 40°F (4.5°C). Below that, wait until spring warm-up before dosing. Store between 50°F and 104°F; if the bottle freezes, thaw and shake well before use (effectiveness is only slightly reduced).\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ SIZE OPTIONS ============================ --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChoose Your Size\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-sizes\"\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"ppd-stile\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sz\"\u003e8 oz\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"tr\"\u003etreats 5,000 gal\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sk\"\u003e#96013\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"ppd-stile\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sz\"\u003e16 oz\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"tr\"\u003etreats 10,000 gal\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sk\"\u003e#96014\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"ppd-stile\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sz\"\u003e32 oz\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"tr\"\u003etreats 20,000 gal\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sk\"\u003e#96015\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"ppd-stile\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sz\"\u003e1 gallon\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"tr\"\u003etreats 80,000 gal\u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sk\"\u003e#96008\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"color:var(--muted); font-size:.92rem;\"\u003eSelect your size in the buy box above. The 8 oz, 16 oz, and 32 oz bottles dose at 1 pump per 100 gallons; the 1-gallon bottle uses a larger pump top that doses 600 gallons per pump.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ STARTER vs BENEFICIAL ============================ --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePond Starter Bacteria vs. Beneficial Bacteria — Which Do You Need?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-compare\"\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"ppd-cc this\"\u003e\n    \u003ch4\u003ePond Starter Bacteria (this product)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUse for:\u003c\/strong\u003e new ponds, spring start-up, and after a full clean-out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen:\u003c\/strong\u003e weekly for the first two weeks, then switch to a maintenance bacteria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJob:\u003c\/strong\u003e rapidly colonize an empty or dormant system and kick-start the nitrogen cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv class=\"ppd-cc\"\u003e\n    \u003ch4\u003eBeneficial Bacteria (maintenance)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUse for:\u003c\/strong\u003e ongoing, in-season upkeep of an already-established pond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen:\u003c\/strong\u003e routinely (often weekly) through the warm months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJob:\u003c\/strong\u003e keep bacteria populations topped up so water stays clear and sludge stays down all season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThink of Starter Bacteria as the \u003cstrong\u003eignition\u003c\/strong\u003e and Beneficial Bacteria as the \u003cstrong\u003efuel that keeps it running\u003c\/strong\u003e. Most pond owners use Starter at open-up, then maintain with Beneficial Bacteria through summer. Not sure which you need? Call or text us at \u003ca href=\"tel:7655084352\"\u003e(765) 508-4352\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ FAQ ============================ --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-faq\"\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eHow much Pond Starter Bacteria do I use?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDose 1 pump per 100 gallons of pond water, regardless of bottle size. Each size treats a set volume: 8 oz treats 5,000 gallons, 16 oz treats 10,000 gallons, 32 oz treats 20,000 gallons, and the 1-gallon size treats 80,000 gallons per application. For new ponds and spring start-up, apply once a week for two weeks, then switch to a maintenance beneficial bacteria for the rest of the season.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eWhich size should I buy for my pond?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMatch the size to your pond volume and how many start-up cycles you want to cover. Since a full start-up is two applications, effective single-bottle coverage is about half the rated gallons: the 8 oz (5,000 gal rated) fully covers a ~2,500-gallon start-up cycle, the 16 oz a ~5,000-gallon cycle, and so on. For a typical 500–1,500 gallon backyard pond, the 8 oz or 16 oz is plenty; the 32 oz and 1-gallon sizes suit large ponds or multi-pond owners.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eWhen should I add it to my pond?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eUse it when you fill a new pond, after a complete clean-out, or at spring start-up once water temperatures rise above 40°F. Add it to the area of the pond with the most circulation — near the waterfall or skimmer return — and aerate heavily for at least 24 hours afterward to help the bacteria establish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eIs it safe for koi, goldfish, plants, and pets?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria is completely safe for fish, plants, pets, and wildlife. There's no lockout period and no need to remove livestock — you can dose with fish in the pond.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eCan I use it with an EasyPro or other-brand pond kit?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes. Beneficial bacteria treatments are brand-agnostic — Pond Starter Bacteria works in any liner, preformed, or container pond regardless of the skimmer, filter, or pump brand. It's a good companion for start-up on any of our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/collections\/pond-kits\"\u003ecomplete pond kits\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eWhat's the difference between Pond Starter Bacteria and Beneficial Bacteria?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePond Starter Bacteria is the start-up formula — it rapidly colonizes a new or freshly cleaned pond and kick-starts the nitrogen cycle, applied weekly for the first two weeks. Beneficial Bacteria is the maintenance formula for routine, in-season dosing of an already-established pond. Most owners start with Starter, then maintain with Beneficial through the warm months.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eDoes it expire or get damaged if it freezes?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStore the bottle between 50°F and 104°F. If it freezes, effectiveness is only slightly reduced — just thaw it and shake well before use. Storing outside the recommended range long-term can degrade the product and packaging, so keep it in a temperature-stable spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails\u003e\n    \u003csummary\u003eWill the water get cloudy after I add it?\u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"ans\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eA brief haze can appear right after dosing as bacteria disperse and begin working; it typically clears within a day or two, especially with good aeration. If cloudiness persists, it usually points to a pond that's still cycling or an unrelated water-quality issue rather than the bacteria itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ WHY BUY FROM PPD ============================ --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy From Pond Pro Direct?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ppd-why\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAuthorized Aquascape dealer\u003c\/strong\u003e — genuine, fresh-stock product, not gray-market.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFull Aquascape water-treatment line\u003c\/strong\u003e — starter and maintenance bacteria, clarifiers, and more. Call for bundle help: \u003ca href=\"tel:7655084352\"\u003e(765) 508-4352\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExpert dosing guidance\u003c\/strong\u003e — tell us your pond's gallons and we'll map out a start-up and maintenance schedule.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30-Day Return Period.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM EST.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-note warn\" style=\"font-size:.9rem;\"\u003e\n  \u003cstrong\u003eCalifornia Proposition 65 Warning:\u003c\/strong\u003e This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.p65warnings.ca.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ewww.p65warnings.ca.gov\u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"ppd-cta\"\u003e\n  \u003ch3\u003eStart your pond off right\u003c\/h3\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eAquascape Pond Starter Bacteria doses at 1 pump per 100 gallons — the simple way to get a new pond or spring start-up to clear, healthy water fast. Available in four sizes from 8 oz to 1 gallon. Safe for fish, plants, and pets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp style=\"margin-top:.7em;\"\u003eNot sure which size you need for your gallons? Call or text \u003ca class=\"ppd-tel\" href=\"tel:7655084352\"\u003e(765) 508-4352\u003c\/a\u003e — Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM EST.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- ============================ FAQ SCHEMA ============================ --\u003e\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How much Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria do I use?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Dose 1 pump per 100 gallons of pond water, regardless of bottle size. Each size treats a set volume per application: 8 oz treats 5,000 gallons, 16 oz treats 10,000 gallons, 32 oz treats 20,000 gallons, and 1 gallon treats 80,000 gallons. For new ponds and spring start-up, apply once a week for two weeks, then switch to a maintenance beneficial bacteria.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Which size of Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria should I buy?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Match the size to your pond volume. Because a full start-up is two applications, effective single-bottle coverage is about half the rated gallons. For a typical 500 to 1,500 gallon backyard pond the 8 oz or 16 oz is plenty; the 32 oz and 1 gallon sizes suit large or multi-pond setups.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"When should I add Pond Starter Bacteria to my pond?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Use it when filling a new pond, after a complete clean-out, or at spring start-up once water temperatures rise above 40°F. Add it to the area of the pond with the most circulation, near the waterfall or skimmer return, and aerate heavily for at least 24 hours afterward.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria safe for koi, goldfish, plants, and pets?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. It is completely safe for fish, plants, pets, and wildlife. There is no lockout period and no need to remove livestock; you can dose with fish in the pond.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can I use it with an EasyPro or other-brand pond kit?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. Beneficial bacteria treatments are brand-agnostic and work in any liner, preformed, or container pond regardless of the skimmer, filter, or pump brand. It is a good companion for start-up on any complete pond kit.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the difference between Pond Starter Bacteria and Beneficial Bacteria?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Pond Starter Bacteria is the start-up formula that rapidly colonizes a new or freshly cleaned pond and kick-starts the nitrogen cycle, applied weekly for the first two weeks. Beneficial Bacteria is the maintenance formula for routine in-season dosing of an already-established pond. Most owners start with Starter, then maintain with Beneficial.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does Pond Starter Bacteria expire or get damaged if it freezes?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Store between 50°F and 104°F. If it freezes, effectiveness is only slightly reduced; thaw and shake well before use. Long-term storage outside the recommended range can degrade the product and packaging.\"}},\n    {\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Will the pond water get cloudy after adding it?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A brief haze can appear right after dosing as the bacteria disperse and begin working; it typically clears within a day or two with good aeration. Persistent cloudiness usually indicates a pond that is still cycling or an unrelated water-quality issue rather than the bacteria itself.\"}}\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- =====================================================================\n     OPTIONAL PRODUCT SCHEMA — VARIANT PRODUCT (enable only if your theme\n     does NOT already output Product schema, to avoid duplicates).\n     Uses AggregateOffer for the 4 sizes; fill in prices + image.\n     Do NOT emit four separate Product blocks.\n     =====================================================================\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\":\"Product\",\n  \"name\":\"Aquascape Pond Starter Bacteria\",\n  \"brand\":{\"@type\":\"Brand\",\"name\":\"Aquascape\"},\n  \"description\":\"Concentrated liquid pond starter bacteria that establishes the biological ecosystem for new ponds and spring start-ups. Doses at 1 pump per 100 gallons. Safe for fish, plants, and pets. Available in 8 oz, 16 oz, 32 oz, and 1 gallon.\",\n  \"image\":\"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/PATH-TO-IMAGE.jpg\",\n  \"offers\":{\n    \"@type\":\"AggregateOffer\",\n    \"priceCurrency\":\"USD\",\n    \"lowPrice\":\"XX.XX\",\n    \"highPrice\":\"XXX.XX\",\n    \"offerCount\":\"4\",\n    \"availability\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/InStock\",\n    \"offers\":[\n      {\"@type\":\"Offer\",\"sku\":\"96013\",\"name\":\"8 oz\",\"price\":\"XX.XX\",\"priceCurrency\":\"USD\",\"availability\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/InStock\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/products\/aquascape-pond-starter-bacteria?variant=8OZ_ID\"},\n      {\"@type\":\"Offer\",\"sku\":\"96014\",\"name\":\"16 oz\",\"price\":\"XX.XX\",\"priceCurrency\":\"USD\",\"availability\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/InStock\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/products\/aquascape-pond-starter-bacteria?variant=16OZ_ID\"},\n      {\"@type\":\"Offer\",\"sku\":\"96015\",\"name\":\"32 oz\",\"price\":\"XX.XX\",\"priceCurrency\":\"USD\",\"availability\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/InStock\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/products\/aquascape-pond-starter-bacteria?variant=32OZ_ID\"},\n      {\"@type\":\"Offer\",\"sku\":\"96008\",\"name\":\"1 gallon\",\"price\":\"XXX.XX\",\"priceCurrency\":\"USD\",\"availability\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/InStock\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/products\/aquascape-pond-starter-bacteria?variant=1GAL_ID\"}\n    ]\n  }\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e\n--\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Aquascape","offers":[{"title":"32 oz","offer_id":51927479288129,"sku":"96015","price":35.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 gallon","offer_id":51927479320897,"sku":"96008","price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"16 oz","offer_id":51927498588481,"sku":null,"price":22.39,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0956\/6919\/0977\/files\/96014_FRNT_300dpi_PondStarter16oz-820x820.webp?v=1783188988","url":"https:\/\/pondprodirect.com\/products\/aquascape-pond-starter-bacteria","provider":"Pond Pro Direct","version":"1.0","type":"link"}