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At temperatures below 10 °C pond fish mostly retreat into the deeper water layers to slowly come to a rest. Nevertheless it often happens that fish remain active at surface temperatures between 5 and 15 °C (where most measurements are carried out). Activity means energy demand, and this energy needs to be supplied with adequate food. Otherwise the fish have to live from their energy reserves. Unfortunately many pond owners experience that by spring the fish are so weakened from the winter period that they have become very susceptible to illnesses. Spring viraemia is a dreaded phenomenon. Only when the fish cease their activities and more or less lie on the pond ground does their need for food stop completely!
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