Ornamental Koi Fish - Colorful Pond Carp

Domestic Koi are best known as the fish seen in Japanese ponds. These brightly colored creatures are the result of selective breeding of wild carp. Over centuries a range of pleasing colors, patterns and shapes have been developed. As testament to it's popularity Japanese art these fish have been depicted on all manner of objects from painted canvasses to decorative urns. Over time this fish has become accepted by other countries as a good choice for gardens.

Koi are cold water fish making them well suited the temperatures experienced in outdoor ponds during winter. Though they can be left in water below 10 degrees no food should be offered at these temperatures. This is because the Koi go into a state of semi hibernation where the digestive system does not operate correctly. As a result the food can rot internally causing bloat which can potentially lead to death.

To prepare the Koi to overwinter without feeding care should be taken in the preceding months before winter. This is to ensure the carp have put on the mass to fuel their metabolism while fasting. During this period particularly offer blanched leafy vegetables in addition to pellets.

In warmer weather these fish are fed on floating pellets or sticks. As a rule of thumb only feed what the Koi will eat in less than five minutes. Many aquatic plants will also be devoured by Koi so do not expect vegetation to grow at it's best. Floating plants such as duckweed are a welcome treat that can also be offered. Only five minutes worth of food should be offered in a feeding.

The actual pond used is ideally two meters in length or greater. Some keep smaller Koi in aquariums but it takes a very large tank to house fully grown fish. With a lifespan of 30 to 200 years a Koi is a long term pet. The larger the pond the more Koi you will be able to keep so keep this in mind while planning. When several are kept they will often swim as a school and approach as a group during feeding.

Though mature specimens are over a foot in length the average pond owner will start with smaller fish. These should be protected from wild and domestic animals for reduced casualties. Deep water and floating plants are useful for this. A net or mesh cover would can unsightly but offers even greater protection.

This article is a simple introduction to the topic of koi in outdoor gardens. Andrew Fuller writes for aquariumfishshop.com about koi fish and other species.