Pond Renovation

Introduction   |    What is Rotenone?   |   Preparing the Pond   |   Applying Rotenone   |   Restocking the Pond

What is Rotenone?

Rotenone is available at most farm and chemical supply stores. It is classified as a "restricted use pesticide," and you cannot buy it without a private pesticide applicator's certificate. You can get this certificate through your county extension agent.

Rotenone comes from the roots and stems of several tropical plants. Rotenone has many common and brand names, including Cube, Derris, Fish-Tox, Nox-Fish, Prentox, Nusyn Nox-Fish, rotenone dust, and Chem-Fish.

Rotenone keeps fish from using oxygen, but it does not remove oxygen from the water. Fish treated with rotenone move to the shallow water or to the surface of deeper water soon after exposure to the chemical. Fish species respond differently to rotenone, so it is a good idea to know what species you have before you treat the pond.

Rotenone breaks down when exposed to the environment. The breakdown is rapid and is affected by temperature, light, oxygen, and alkalinity. Most waters are safe for restocking within 5 to 6 weeks. In general, the cooler the water, the longer rotenone lasts.