Which type of ponds use mechanical equipment to provide oxygen?

Aerated ponds utilize mechanical equipment to enhance oxygen transfer in the water, which is essential for the aerobic bacteria that break down organic matter. These ponds are specifically designed to incorporate aeration devices like diffusers or mechanically driven mixers, allowing for a greater supply of oxygen compared to passive systems. This increased aeration promotes more efficient biochemical processes, leading to improved treatment of wastewater.

Facultative ponds, by contrast, rely on a combination of aerobic and anaerobic processes and depend on natural aeration through wind and surface agitation rather than mechanical means. Unaerated ponds lack any intentional aeration methods and primarily function on anaerobic processes, while natural ponds do not involve any artificial enhancement of oxygen levels. Consequently, these other types of ponds cannot achieve the same levels of oxygenation and efficiency in treating wastewater that aerated ponds can.