Koi, short for Nishikigoi, are highly developed forms of the common Carp. Hundreds of years ago Japanese farmers in the village of Yamakoshi started breeding varieties of Koi started from a red colored Carp. The rest is history through selective breeding. There are now over 100 varieties of Koi available with the possibility of more.

Nishikigoi have been called the national fish of Japan. Varieties of Koi that have been bred include the red, black and white Taisho Sanke and the red and white Kohaku.

Top quality show Koi command extremely high prices when changing hands, often for as high as $100,000.00 US.

Tank Setup

Koi are best kept in large outdoor ponds where they can reach their full adult length of three feet or more. The pond must have a strong filtration system with a current capable of keeping the pond well aerated. Oxygen-starved Koi will be seen gasping at the surface for air. Koi may damage certain types of plants.

Feeding

Koi are omnivorous and should be fed accordingly. Many types of prepared "Koi pellets" are available at your local pet or garden store and make a good daily food. When fed properly Koi live a very long and active life. Many specimens become tame and may be encouraged to take food from their owner's hand.

Water Chemistry

Nishikigoi are hardy fish that will adapt to most outdoor pond conditions. The pH of the pond should be kept around 7.0 and the temperature can be kept anywhere between 50-70+ degrees F. When kept in a deep pond, Koi may be left outside in the winter in freezing temperatures so long as the pond doesn't freeze solid to the ground.

Breeding

Koi are now bred not only in their place of origin, Niigata, but all over Japan and the United States. A very large pond will be needed if your Koi are to spawn.

Healthy fish four or five years of age are preferred. In a pond containing several Koi a pair may spawn and lay eggs on and around plants. April to May is the usual time of spawning. Males should be removed carefully or they may eat the eggs. Both fish should be handled with care after spawning has occurred as the male has lost his protective slime coating and the female is vulnerable to harassment.