Hi,

Having an interest in the biochemical properties of Northern, Common Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), I found out that the literature states it to be piscicidal. I'd figure that it should be toxic to fish (and mollusks) since it is insecticidal, as well.

However, I found a site re: frog farming that recommends the use of boiled pawpaw leaves for the feeding of tadpoles; boiling may destroy the toxins.

So, should water gardeners with fish in their [closed-system] ponds avoid planting pawpaw near their ponds? I've read, here-and-there, of plants that are said to be toxic (and likely are completely toxic in concentration/in non-typical contexts). However, usually, nothing bad ever happens. Yet, the compounds in pawpaw are highly potent, for good or bad.

I'm probably going to plant a pawpaw patch right beside my pond and my guess is that the compounds will break down in the leaves in the water, when dissolved and not be a practical problem.

?

Steve