koi (80mm)

KOI CARE REQUIREMENTS

Tank/pond size:

• • Minimum 250 gallons of water for a few koi.
  • Larger ponds are better as koi grow quite large (up to 3 feet).

• Water quality:

  • Maintain a pH level between 7.0 and 8.0.
  • Temperature should range from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C).
  • Use a good filtration system to keep the water clean and clear.

• Water changes:

  • Perform 10-20% water changes weekly or bi-weekly to maintain water quality.

• Filtration:

  • Use a high-quality biological and mechanical filtration system to handle waste.

• Aeration:

  • Ensure the pond is properly aerated, especially in warm weather, to provide oxygen.

• Diet:

  • Feed high-quality koi pellets or specialized koi food.
  • Offer treats like vegetables (e.g., peas, spinach) occasionally.
  • Feed 2-3 times a day but only as much as they can eat in 5 minutes to avoid overfeeding.

• Oxygen levels:

  • Ensure sufficient oxygen in the water with a pump or aerator.

• Winter care:

  • Koi can survive winter if the pond is deep enough (at least 3-4 feet), but avoid feeding them when water temperature drops below 50°F.
  • Ensure the pond is not completely frozen by keeping a de-icer or aerator running.

• Tank mates:

  • Koi generally get along with other koi and peaceful fish, but avoid aggressive species.

• Lighting:

  • Provide natural sunlight or artificial pond lighting for plant growth and to simulate day-night cycles.

• Health monitoring:

  • Watch for signs of disease such as abnormal swimming, loss of appetite, or lesions on the body.
  • Quarantine new fish for at least 2 weeks before adding them to the pond.

• Security:

  • Ensure the pond is protected from predators like birds or raccoons, especially in outdoor ponds.

• Cleaning:

  • Keep the pond and water filter clean to avoid harmful waste buildup.