Koi are unique in the fish world. Let's face it... most fish you keep in an aquarium are pretty to look at, but as a pet, they're pretty passive. Koi, however, have personality and will actually interact with you. Once you buy Koi, they will steal your heart with their bright patterns, intelligence and friendliness.
Before you run out and buy one at the nearest fish store, there are a few things you need to do first. If you want your Koi to grow large enough to be impressive, you need a large outdoor pond. If you don't already have one, you'll need to look into building one and making sure that there is adequate filtration to keep your Koi happy and healthy. Make sure your Koi pond has hiding spots for your new Koi so they can avoid potential predators like Great Blue Herons and other predatory birds who fish. Other predators they will need protection from may include raccoons, snakes and kingfishers. You will also need to make sure your pond is safe from water runoff that may contain insecticides and herbicides. As your experience grows, you will learn to routinely test your water for chemical composition, since fish and food waste can convert to ammonia and other chemicals that are harmful to your Koi.
While your pond is being built and being readied for fish, learn about what Koi need to survive. Koi are known for their longevity. Are you prepared to care for these beautiful carp for 20 years or more? Yes, you read that right. Unlike most tropical fish in an aquarium, your Koi will live a long time, and may even outlive you in some circumstances! In 1965, a very large Koi was examined by a Japanese professor and was declared to be 215 years old, according to a study of its scales under a light microscope. Before you buy Koi, you need to know they require the right kind of high protein food. Feeding time is usually the Koi fancier's favorite time of day. Koi will learn to come up and eat from your hand. They may also do acrobatics and create a small feeding frenzy that can be very entertaining. Koi are able to taste, hear and smell quite well. They even blush when they are stressed, so they have a way of communicating with you when something is wrong.
Koi can not only make an interesting and unique pet, they can become a profitable hobby if you have the room. With enough space, Koi breed easily and those with good markings can bring in a pretty penny. There are many pattern classifications to describe these colorful fish and it can be lots of fun trying to identify the patterns your fish have. For serious hobbyists, there are shows where your brightly decorated carp can compete with others.
For most Koi enthusiasts, however it is enough to enjoy the capers of these smart, attractive fish and spoil their favorites with treats like watermelon rinds and spinach. Watching fish swim can actually help relieve everyday stress and strain. You'll soon find that koi are addictive and you'll look forward to your time out by the pond relaxing while you watch these captivating fish.
For more interesting information about Koi and where you can buy Koi online visit this website - http://www.live-koifish.com
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