If you have some extra space in your yard and you’re interested in setting up a pond, you can consider starting your own fish koi pond. To have a pond that is dedicated to colorful Koi fishes is a good way to keep them. You can choose a good spot in your yard where you can relax and simply appreciate these colorful fishes in their own habitat.
Before you start hauling the materials and bringing the new fishes in, you need to know a few things about them first.
Temperament & Origin
These fishes are generally peaceful, although at times they can also pick on other fishes. They are have originated from a type of carp that is native to Japan.
Size & Lifespan
Koi fishes can grow in size and get large quickly. They can grow up to 36 inches long or 91 centimeters. They have a long lifespan, being able to live for more than 50 years. They can also thrive in a wide range of water temperatures.
Pond Size
Knowing how big these Koi fishes can get, they will need a lot of space. You would want to prepare a good area with enough space. Keep the fishes in a pond that is at least 3 feet deep, having at least 50 gallons of water.
If the Koi fishes are still young, they can be kept indoors in an area with at least 30 gallons.
Set up the Pond
The pond must be in a quiet area out of direct sunlight and drafts. You may cover the pond with a hood to reduce the evaporation and that will also keep them from leaping out.
Transfer to the Pond
When transferring new koi to the pond, place the fish bag in the water. This will allow the fish to float in the water inside their bag for about 10 minutes, and the fish can acclimate to the new water temperature.
When transferring new koi to an existing school in a pond, make sure that you quarantine the new fish first in a separate body of water. Allow for 2 to 4 weeks of isolation to be sure they are healthy.
After isolating the fishes and clearing them from any conditions that can possibly infect the existing school in the pond, you may now transfer them to the pond. Use a net to transfer the fish so the old water does not mingle with the new water.
Filtration
Your backyard pond will definitely need proper filtration, and that will include both biological and mechanical filters. Your aquarium filter should be able to process the tank water in 3 to 5 times an hour.
You can also set up a bottom drain, as it will help with water changes.
With all this information handy, you can now start planning on how to set up your new outdoor koi pond. This can be placed in a good relaxing part in your yard where you can calmly hear the fishes swimming and be amazed at their natural colors.
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