How to Raise Koi Fish

Koi, like all animals you care for, have special needs for them to thrive.

Adding a koi pond to your yard can make for a beautiful addition to your landscape while featuring the graceful creatures at the same time. However, koi, like all animals you care for, have special needs for them to thrive. When raising these fish, you need to provide protection, regular food and clean water.

Things You'll Need

• Koi food
• Pond net
• Pond vacuum
• Hose
• Pond plants
• Pond PH test kit
• Filters for pumps

Instructions

1. The first and most important step to raising koi is to feed your fish regularly. If they are getting plenty of natural food, like plants and mosquitos, you can skip this step, but it's a good idea to sprinkle some food on the top of the water once every week.

2. Next, you need to keep the pond clean. To do this, rinse your filter at least once a week, changing filters every six months. Skim any debris off the top of the pond, and vacuum the bottom of the pond at least once a month.

3. Watch the water clarity. Koi like the pH to be as close to neutral as possible. If the pH is too high or too low, you need to chemically correct it. Make sure you use one that is fish friendly. Consult your local aquarium store for tip and exact instructions.

4. Keep your fish disease free. To do this, add some pond salt to the pond. Follow directions exactly. You can also purchase biological and UV filters for added protection. Also, to ensure the best health of your fish, keep your pond clean and free of algae. If you see algae that is stringy, simply remove it. If there is algae on the liner of the pond, wipe it off with a towel.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have excessive algae, you can get an algaecide. Make sure it is fish friendly. You can feed koi fruit like watermelon and lemons for added nutrition, just remember to take off the skin.

• Don't neglect your fish!

References

• peteducation.com: Koi Ponds: Environmental Needs, Husbandry, and Basic Care