Koi Fish Care

HISTORY

The koi fish is technically referred to as an ornamental variation of carp, sometimes referred to with the term ‘nishikigoi’ (brocaded carp). The koi fish was first developed in Japan, from a variation of the common carp. In the 1820s, common carp breeding for selective colors became popular in the town of Ojiya. By the 20^th century, many different color patterns had been successfully established in carp, though the most popular was a red-and-white color variation called “Kohaku”. However, other countries did not become aware of this special type of carp until the color variations of the koi fish were displayed at a Tokyo exhibition in 1914. This gave a huge jump-start to the popularity of the koi fish, creating the hobby of keeping koi fish. Today, many types of koi fish are available at pet care supply stores, though certain types of koi are only available from specialized breeders.

APPEARANCE

Since the appearance of the koi fish can vary greatly from different types of varieties, sub-categories were established for koi fish based on three factors: scalation, patterning and coloration. Though the color variation, type and pattern of the koi fish are relatively limitless, there are certain colors which are generally accepted as being more common. These colors are cream, blue, yellow, red, black and white. Depending on the pattern and type of colors on a koi fish, pet fish care specialists have created several different categories. The most popular category for koi fish by far is called “Gosanke”, which includes three koi fish varieties: Sowa Sanshouku, Taisho Sanshouku and Kohaku.

BEHAVIOR

Koi fish are variations of carp, which are well-known for being very hardy fish. Most koi will thrive in cold-water environments, though cannot tolerate extended periods of cold temperatures. In general, a koi fish is best kept in a temperature of 59 to 77 degrees F (15 – 25 degrees C). Most koi fish are relatively docile, and can even be trained for hand-feeding over time. Since koi fish detect their environment primarily due to sound vibration (being a near-sighted breed of fish), it’s important to keep your koi fish in a place where they will not be disrupted by any excessive loud noises. Koi fish can on occasion be aggressive, though usually only towards smaller types of fish. This is one of the main reasons that koi fish are often kept in their own enclosure, separate from all other fish.

FEEDING

Since koi fish are classified as being an omnivorous species of fish, they can eat a wide variety of different foods. Many koi owners feed their fish bits of lettuce, peas or watermelon. There are specialized fish food formulas available that are designed to meet the nutritional needs of koi fish specifically. When kept in colder conditions, a koi fish’s digestive system will slow to the point where they will only eat a very small amount each day. If you keep your koi fish outdoors, it’s very important not to overfeed them during cold months. This can result in the food going rancid while awaiting digestion, which can cause health problems.