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KOI POND BASICS
Koi, or Japanese carp, are a species of carp fish that have a particularly attractive and colourful appearance, making them perfect for indoor and outdoor pond environments. While they may look a lot like large goldfish, these species differ in several important ways. Goldfish tend to be much smaller and have different body characteristics. Koi, for instance, have prominent barbell-shaped whiskers when fully grown. When both species are immature, however, they can be difficult to distinguish from each other. Another characteristic that makes these particular fish well-suited for ponds is that carp, generally, and Koi specifically, are a very rugged species of fish. They can live for years, even decades when properly cared for. One Koi named Hanako had several owners and lived to be 226 years old. Koi cannot usually survive long winters, as their immune systems shut down in temperatures below 50 degrees F. The longer and colder winters are, the greater the depth will be required to keep them alive. Japanese Koi are generally accepted as the most beautiful and expensive Koi, while American, Israeli and South Korean Koi are less attractive but less expensive. The Koi and pond fish have many predators, too, and owners can take measures during the design phase to keep predators at bay. This can be done with shade trees to keep the fish out the view of birds, overhangs too high for raccoons and cats to reach down, and water that is too deep for birds of prey to stand in. Designing the pond can be the most enjoyable part of the process. The owner can start with a little wild brainstorming, following interesting and unusual ideas if they wish. These initial ideas don't have to be too serious as they allow the owner to figure out what they like and what they don't like. They can then design a pond that fits the specific circumstances and taste of the owner. Are YOU looking for everything Koi? Click here for specialist information There's much more to design, however, than landscape and looks. A well-designed pond should have sufficient filtration systems that include both mechanical and biological filtration. The fish create toxins like ammonia. Plants and bacteria can also contribute their own by-products, many of which are deadly to Koi. Keeping the carp alive will require careful design of a system that provides adequate filtration. Planning before building a pond is critical. There is no improvising in a successful project of this nature. Typically, when a design turns out to be poor, there is no way to fix or alter the pond. The only real option is to throw it all out and start from scratch. It is recommended that prospective Koi owners consult with professionals in the process before gathering materials and beginning construction. These fish typically eat vegetable matter and will readily munch on lettuce or seedless watermelon pieces. Commercially produced species-specific food, however, promotes good nutrition. It is also made to float on the surface, encouraging the fish to make themselves more visible.
About the Author: Christine Harrell is a freelance copywriter. For more information about pondless waterfalls, please visit http://www.russellwatergardens.com/.
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