It all begins with the Greek term gýrinos (γυρίνος). At that time, the word was already used to describe these small aquatic creatures. The root comes from gyrós, which means curved, rounded, or circular. Then, as happened with much of the scientific and biological vocabulary, the term migrated into Latin as gyrinus. The logic [...]

Healthy aquatic ecosystems possess the remarkable capacity for self-regulation, which can also be considered a form of self-cleaning. For lakes, as well as biological pools, this means that nutrients and harmful substances introduced into the water are transformed by physical, chemical, and biological processes, so that their negative impact on the ecosystem is reduced. [...]

The stormwater outlet or overflow pipe is an often overlooked part of a biological pool, but it's crucial for the proper functioning of the system. Water falling on the surface increases the amount of water in the pool. If it's more than a drizzle, it results in a rise in the water level relative [...]

There are numerous abandoned tanks in Portugal. Many are out of use, either due to the existence of new irrigation solutions or the complete abandonment of agricultural activity. However, if the tank is deep enough, it can be transformed into a biological swimming pool. The external circular shape is maintained. Inside, separation walls are [...]

The modest Lesser Skullcap plant is emblematic of the critical, often small, species used as marginal planting in our biological swimming pools. Biodiversity requires a wide and varied offering of species, which collectively provide structure, sustenance, and shade for the swimming environment. This plant is obscure and difficult to source in standard aquatic nurseries. [...]