Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Dewitt PN302020 Deluxe Pond Protection Net, 20 Foot x 20 Foot

DeWitt Deluxe 20' x 20' Pond Netting is an environmentally safe polypropylene material similar to DeWitt's knitted shade fabric used by many greenhouse growers. Deluxe Pond Netting is constructed with 1/4" mesh knitted strands that are bonded together. It is much stronger and more durable than the old 3/4" mesh net that this product replaces! It is also UV-treated for long life in the sun. Helps keep leaves, debris, predators and children out of ponds.
Price: $67.95

Click here to buy from Amazon

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Savio PP800 Pond Package

Savio Pond Packages include everything needed to build a full size pond with professional results. Say goodbye to ugly black boxes, floating scum, and even pump cords and hoses in the pond – Savio systems merge seamlessly into the landscape, so the end result is a great looking pond. Superior Savio filtration components and designs assure low maintenance and a healthy ecosystem. You just can't beat the simplicity of Savio components. We offer a whole new way of building ponds, and this kit includes it all: a Skimmerfilter® base unit, a 16 inch waterfall weir, a Skimmerfilter® six inch faceplate, 45 milliliter EPDM liner that's 12 feet by 15 feet, 12 foot by 15 foot underlay, black foam, one inch by 25 foot kink free hose, construction guide, plumbing kit, beneficial bacteria/barley extract, Water Master solids pump 2050, How to Build a Livingpond® video. Kit makes an eight foot by 11 foot by two foot, 800 gallon pond with waterfall!
Price: $1,239.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Poly Resin Large Koi

True to nature koi make for a maintenance-free school of fish. They also serve as decoys to birds and other water animals. The attached weight allows them to be placed at different depths and prevents them fro swimming away. 3"Wx9"l.
Price:

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Koi Pond Silk Reflections Regular Size Flag

The sleek and colorful koi pond is a classic favorite. Capture the color and the movement in this Koi Pond Flag. Our Silk Reflections Flags are made with a heat sublimation process for a richer and deeper color and detail display in our flags. An amazing process to make this light weight and sleek flag one of the best Evergreen flags in the market. Flag Size: 28" x 43"

Make an impression! These beautiful, brightly colored, creatively designed flags are the perfect way to greet someone to your home or garden. Made with tight-stitching and high quality material to last and last. Our silk reflections regular size flags are extra-durable, weather-wear- and fade-resistant, sure to hang proudly in front of your home for month after long-lasting month.
Price:

Click here to buy from Amazon

Airmax Eco Systems 160135 Koi Pond Aeration Kit 8-000-16-000 gallons

Airmax aeration kit designed with quality and performance as top priority. If you are looking for the best water garden aerator on the market this is it. Koi Air aeration kits are made for outdoor use although a protective cover is recommended. The faux rock cover works great for protecting the compressor and blends into any landscape. Faux Rock Cover dimensions are 19''L x 14''W x 12''H. Includes: High efficiency compressor with dual air control valves 50''-.38'' weighted airline 2- 2 membrane stick diffuser plates and fittings. Aerates from 8 000 to 16 000 gallons.
Price:

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KOI VIBRANCE 25L POND FOOD

Tetra Pond Koi Vibrance Floating Pond Sticks are a highly nutritional diet that bring out vibrant reds and yellows on Koi and ornamental golfish. Feed in spring, summer, or fall, when water temperatures are 50 degress F and above.
Price: $67.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Sunterra 202000 Pond Pump 2000 GPH, Black

The pump is at the heart of a water garden. Without it, water will not circulate to create a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Sunterra pumps circulate water to help prevent breeding conditions for unwanted insects while oxygenating it for plants and fish. Pumps are distinguished by the gallons per hour they produce at one foot of lift or head. All Sunterra pumps are submersible and must be placed in water to function properly. Direct Drive pumps are more powerful and provide higher GPH output than magnetic drive pumps. These pumps are energy efficient, water cooled and use no oil. Direct Drive pumps are designed for use in dirty water applications where the possibility of water impurities is high. All Sunterra pumps are 100% water tested and have a 25 foot power cord. The pump is 2000 gallons per hour and has a maximum lift of 23 feet. This pump can handle a larger volume of water and can be used in large water garden applications and those containing waterfalls.
Price: $144.00

Click here to buy from Amazon

Monday, September 27, 2010

Koi Fish Information - Rainbow in a Pond!


How about a live rainbow that shimmers right in front of your eyes, 24x7- Sounds beautiful, isn't it- For those of you who know Koi fish, such a rainbow must be an old acquaintance! And for those who are just venturing into the Koi fish hobby, it will be a sight that comes in gratis with all the beauty, warmth and friendship that this 'very social' fish brings along.

Koi is a domesticated, cold water fish that thrives very well in outdoor ponds. It is popular for its beauty and adaptability. It is originally a species of Carp that was first bred for colour mutations in ancient China. Koi, in its present form, owes its worldwide popularity to Japan. 'Koi' means Carp in Japanese. The fish that is known world over as 'Koi' is actually the brocaded carp or 'nishikigoi' in Japanese. The Japanese started breeding Koi for colour in early the 19th century. The hobby spread all over Japan in the early 1900s, after the fish was exhibited in the annual exposition in Tokyo. Eventually, the Koi journeyed to various parts of the world.

Koi fish and Koi fish information is available in most pet stores. But if you want the best quality and information, with all the traits specific to the species, you should buy from a speciality store. There are different varieties of Koi, each having a specific colour pattern. However, the fish is still being actively bred for producing new colour patterns and for increasing the adaptability even further. Some hybrid varieties like the Ghost Koi and the Butterfly Koi have also been developed.

Based on the colour patterns some Koi varieties are listed below.

A glance at this list is enough to give you a peek into the colourful world of Koi:

- Kohaku - White Koi with large red markings.

- Taisho Shanshoku - Similar to the Kohaku but with an addition of small black markings.

- Showa Shanshoku - Black Koi with red and white markings.

- Tancho - It's a term for any Koi with a solitary red patch on it.

- Chagoi - A Koi with colours ranging from pale olive green to brown and bronze.

- Asagi - A Koi that is light blue above and red (or sometimes pale yellow) below the lateral line and on the cheeks.

- Utsurimono - A black Koi with a red, white or yellow markings.

- Bekko - A Koi with a white, red or yellow skin and black markings on the top.

- Goshiki - A dark Koi with red hi pattern.

- Shusui - A koi with a sky blue or grey colour above the lateral line and red or orange below the lateral line and on cheeks.

- Kinginrin - A koi with metallic scales.

- Ogon - Metallic Koi of one colour only.

- Ochiba - A light blue/grey koi with copper, bronze or yellow patterns.

- Koromo - A Koi with Kohaku style pattern with black/blue edged scales only over the high pattern.

- Hikari-moyomono - A koi with two metallic colours.

Besides these, a Koi that can't be put into a specific category is categorized as 'Kawarimono'.

Koi is very adaptable, but temperatures below 10 C are not very good for them. In an outdoor pond, it's necessary to use protective measures in order to keep the predators away; as Koi's bright colour results into being an attractive invitation.

It's an omnivorous fish that requires to be fed on carefully designed nutritious food. Feeding is also the time when your Koi will respond to your love and care by eating from your hand, once they recognize you as their regular feeder.

So go ahead, and take a plunge into the rainbow world of Koi and add some colour for your pond to ponder!








Nelson Williams offers more knowledge here about raising koi. He has raised, studied, bred and cared for hundreds of varieties of Koi. He has become a well respected source of information for breeders and pet care professionals internationally.His twenty plus years of practical experience and research are available in his latest book, Insider's Secrets To Raising Healthy Koi.


What Do Koi Fish Symbolize?


Before answering the question 'what do koi fish symbolize?' it is appropriate to start with a little background information.

Koi fish are one of the most beautiful species of fish one can have as a pet. Amongst other things, Koi carp fish are not very demanding by nature. They are easy to keep but can be quite pricey. Since Koi fish have become popular throughout the world now, people have taken to breeding them commercially. It is said that a single Koi fish of good lineage can cost thousands of dollars. Steep prices don't seem to matter to collectors of Koi. The Japanese and the Chinese value the Koi fish a lot because they believe it brings luck and positive energy into their homes. There seems to be a growing interest in the western world for this particular variety of fish as well. A large number of people keep Koi simply because they want to decorate their homes and others do so because they believe that Koi can be good for them and their families.

An interesting thing to note about the Koi is that the symbolism that goes along with it is mainly based on the outward behavioral qualities of the fish itself. When observed in a pond, Koi tend to be very active and inquisitive. They are always moving around inside the pond and apparently searching through the silt at the base of the pond disturbing it constantly. Therefore when building a Koi pond it is a good idea to keep plants behind a net or firmly rooted otherwise the Koi is sure to uproot them. Due to this behavior of the Koi it symbolizes masculinity and power.

One of the very important symbols Koi carp fish stand for is nonconformity. According to a very old legend the Koi is known to swim bravely upstream, surpass hurdles and evolve into a dragon. According to this legend the Koi encounter a big waterfall known as the Dragon Gate on the Yellow River and out of all the fish that try to pass through it, only the Koi has the strength to surpass it and emerge victorious. Because Koi fish are daring enough to swim in the opposite direction of the strong flow of water they represent a willingness to flout norms and display independence. It goes to show that Koi fish are independent minded creatures and will do what they want to irrespective of the risk involved. This behavioral attribute of the Koi is synonymous with strong willed individuals who in order to achieve their targets in life will take on challenges with ease and suffer adversity to gain their purpose.

Koi fish are stunning creatures to look at as they grow big in size and sport a variety of brilliant hues. Koi fish are not clumsy by nature. Even when they grow large they are seen gliding effortlessly through water with a grace that very few fish display. Due to their appearances and the ease with which they move they symbolize beauty and refinement. It is also said that when Koi are removed from water, unlike most other fish they barely struggle and fight. Because of this characteristic of the Koi they are said to symbolize bravery and valor.

For most collectors, the symbolic significance of Koi hardly makes a difference because their beauty is very overpowering. There has been a sudden surge of interest in Koi fish ponds off late as a lot of people have grown rather fascinated by this beautiful variety of marine life. So much so that people get Koi fish tattoos, they paint their patterns on canvas and print their exquisite forms on cloth.








For more information on the question what do koi fish symbolize visit Koi-Carp.Info.


How to Feed Koi Fish Properly


This article is about how to feed koi fish properly and what the best feeding habits to cultivate are. The article will give you tips on how to feed in order to allow the koi to grow the fastest, including information about when you shouldn't feed them.

There's a whole lot to consider when setting up a koi pond or any other habitat that will act as a home to this Japanese species of carp. Properly cultivating and caring for koi isn't as easy as taking care of that fish tank you had as a child. Throwing in a filter and a few algae fish won't be enough, a little bit more attention and tender loving care will be required.

Different size koi need different types of food, depending on how large you want them. Needless to say, koi are very unique pets. When you're first introducing small koi fish to your pond (that is hopefully ready for inhabitants), you will want a slighter warmer water temperature to keep them in. The warmer water will enable the fish to grow faster, and in warm water, you can feed the fish twice per day or until they reach their limit.

On the flip side, feeding koi in colder waters (64 degrees F or lower) slows their digestive system and thus slows their growth. In colder waters below 50 degrees, you want to refrain from feeding the koi at all until the water temperate is higher.

You also have to take into account the actual size of the fish. All koi less than 8 inches in length, as a rule of thumb, should eat around 5% of their total body weight. This may result in two or more feedings per day, depending on the feeding schedule you choose. Bear in mind that koi will eat whatever you give them and will rarely turn away food, so this means you're in complete control of what they ingest.

Keep track of it, whether it's a cereal-based diet, high proteins, or even fruits, over feeding could be disastrous.

Koi exceeding 8 inches in length should only consume around 2% of their body weight. Again, this requires discipline on your part and not on the part of your fish. With a basic fisherman's scale, you can weigh your fish in a matter or minutes and have a gauge for feeding. The warm/cold water system will allow you to properly control their growth and also give you a feeding gauge.

You will know if you're properly feeding your koi fish from their skin colour. A healthy koi is very bright and you can tell that this fish has a healthy diet. A malnourished fish, on the other hand, will have a duller coloured skin or perhaps even spots on the skin where the colour has faded. The latter means you have to provide a more nutritious diet.

Most agree that the best diet for your koi is a mixture of processed pet food and some live treats every now and again. Feeding your koi strictly one or the other may result in malnourished fish.

Koi pellets are available at nearly every pond supply or fish supply store. You can get them in different balances of vitamins and minerals, the combination to which you must determine based on the size of your fish. To keep koi vibrant and lively, mix in a few live treats like earthworms, prawns, or cockles. These are all koi favourites and will help to offer a balanced diet.

Read more about constructing your koi pond at http://www.koi-pond-construction.com where Eddie tells you more about building and maintaining the perfect koi pond.








Read more about constructing your koi pond at http://www.koi-pond-construction.com where Eddie tells you more about building and maintaining the perfect koi pond.


How to Create a Koi Fish Pond


Because of their gracefulness, the longevity of their lives, and their gorgeous colors, it is easy to see why koi fish are so popular to outside ponds. Koi fish also have many traits that make them an ideal fish to thrive in an outside pond.

Since it is realistic to think that koi fish will grow to be large fish they require a pond that is about five hundred gallons or more. Typically the health of the koi depends a lot upon the amount of space that they are provided with and the quality of the water. Koi fish are cold water fish and do very well in water temperatures that are between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows even those who live in cool climates to be able to enjoy a pond full of koi fish. They hibernate in the winter when ice forms on the top of the pond. Their digestive systems slow down almost to a halt allowing them to make it through the winter.

Koi fish are not the only thing that can make a pond gorgeous and interesting to look at. Koi love to have shade like lilies. You can have up to 70 percent of the water's surface covered by lilies. They not only help to give your koi fish cover and shade, lilies help to reduce the amount of algae in the water. Since koi can only receive about five to six ours of direct sunlight, the water lilies really help with the protection of the koi. Plus, since koi are omnivorous meaning they eat both meat and plants, they can find insects and insect larva within the plants. Another way to offer shade to you koi pond is to build your koi pond under a tree where it will receive plenty of shade. But, the negative thing about your pond being under a tree is hat it will most likely be littered with leaves, twigs and needles.

Some thought must go into the depth of the koi fish pond when you are planning to build the pond yourself. The depth of the water can provide some protection from outside predators. Raccoons would love a good koi meal. Providing your koi with at least four feet of water will not only give your fish protection from the sun and more room to swim, it will also keep the raccoons at bay. Some parts of the country have to worry about birds like the Great Blue Heron who love the taste of koi as well. One Blue Heron can eat a meal of about 100 six inch koi. To keep these kinds of predators at bay you should give your koi a water depth of at least 8 feet. Another way to keep bird predators away from your koi fish is to install a bird net over your pond.

When you build your own koi pond you are free to allow your imagination to run wild. You are able to build your koi pond to you specifications in order to flow nicely in your yard and enhance your landscape.

For more information about the magic Koi fish go to: http://www.KoiColors.com








Ted Sikkink, is an ex music industry executive and is very much into koi fish, photography, music, fashion, food & wine, art, information research and is a "life long learning" adept. He helps people to make better choices using internet marketing and social networking.


What Do Koi Fish Represent?


Whether you are a keeper of koi, an admirer of koi or perhaps both, have you ever stopped to wonder about what do koi fish represent?

According to a very old Japanese legend Koi fish are found in the Yellow River where they are often seen swimming bravely upstream. The part of the river where the waterfall flows is exceptionally difficult to pass since the Koi are going in the opposite direction of the water. It is said that the Koi is brave and can surpass this hurdle at most times. If they fail, they are either caught or pushed back downstream. The Japanese legend claims that once the Koi pass this hurdle they are transformed into mythical creatures called as dragons and this marks the end of their struggle. Going by this saying, Koi fish are very brave by nature and therefore they represent courage and determination. They fight their way upstream to achieve their target. It is said that this action of the Koi is analogous to human suffering and the toil which human's see in their lives. These attributes of the Koi carp fish are seen in many humans who are extremely driven by nature and want to make something of their lives or achieve certain goals.

Koi also stand for family and relationships. It is often said that Koi fish which have a distinct black hue stand for the head of the family or the father. The orange Koi fish represents the matriarch or the mother. As for the children, Blue Koi or White Koi usually stands for the male offspring and the Pink or the Red Koi stand for the female offspring. Depictions of the family can be seen on flags and through paintings of Koi in different colors during festivities and special occasions.

Koi can grow to be quite large and are known to consume almost anything that gets in their way. They are very boisterous by nature and show a lot of male qualities in them. More often than not they are seen swimming rigorously around the pond, unearthing plants and generally creating a murky commotion in their living space. Koi fish are therefore associated with masculine dominance.

Koi tattoos have become very popular in recent times. Tattoos of this sort represent different things and have different meanings. For example, if a person has a tattoo of a Koi carp fish that is struggling upstream it basically represents bravery and perseverance followed by victory over battles in life. A Koi fish tattoo can also represent independence and nonconformity to the rules and social laws of society. It is a proclamation of one's individuality and sovereign mind.

Another very important thing that Koi carp fish stand for is status and wealth. Koi fish are relatively easy fish to maintain because they live long and are strong but they have ravenous appetites and are very expensive to procure, especially the original ones. Therefore a family that has a Koi pond is supposed to be a family of wealth and prosperity. Keeping Koi fish can be a pleasurable experience especially since they are magnificently endowed with beautiful colors and patterns.

Apart from the fact that they beautify the house, a lot of people believe in the Koi's mystical abilities to ward off bad omen and attract wealth and happiness. Therefore for most people who can afford it and believe strongly in the power of Koi fish, having a pond with the best fish possible is an absolute must. The Japanese and the Chinese strongly believe that a Koi fish pond at home can bring good fortune and good health to the owner. Today, many people across the world wish to possess Koi ponds because some believe in the Koi as being a good omen while others just want their homes to look beautiful.








For more information to answer what do koi fish represent? visit Koi-Carp.Info


How to Choose Koi Fish Food For Healthy and Happy Koi


Fish like any animal requires food to live, grow and prosper. Ensuring your koi receive the best koi food you need to know more about what you are feeding them.

Here is some information that might help you choose the best koi food for your special fish.

If at all possible you should try to stick to feed that is close as possible to what koi fish normally eat in nature.

These fish are voracious eaters. They will consume almost anything that is available. Therefore it is important that you monitor what they eat to ensure they remain healthy.

You can choose between feeding live insects or commercially available Koi fish food, or you can give them a combination of both. In addition to their normal food you can supplement their diet with occasional treats such as fresh foods and nutritional supplements.

Koi fish are omnivores. This means they can and will consume both animal matter and plants. However, they have a preference for larvae and aquatic insects.

Some people opt not to have plants in their koi ponds because the koi will devour them. However, you must ensure your koi fish get a balance of plant and koi fish food.

The most convenient koi food is a manufactured dried food.

There are different forms such as pellets, granules, chunks, tablets and flakes. All of these feeds are easy to store and convenient.

When considering what type of koi food to use you must take into account the age and size of the fish. It is also necessary to consider their stage of development and the time of year.

Summer requires a higher concentration of protein because energy levels are higher.

During winter they are less active and need a feed that has less protein.

You will use smaller pellets for smaller fish and larger ones for larger fish. Some people believe certain foods enhance the colors of their fish. This works in theory but remember that the red color patterns are genetically embedded. Red will not be greatly enhanced by extra supplementation.

Supplementation can also improve overall health and boost the immune system of koi. A warning must be given that too much can also prove toxic.

Some fish feed for Koi already contain some supplements so read labels and check ingredients to ensure you are not overdosing your fish. This will be harmful and even toxic.

Apart from commercially manufactured foods you can balance the feed with fresh ingredients like lettuce. Your fish will relish this treat. Shred leaves and let it float on the water. Romaine and leaf lettuce are the best to use.

Another food koi fish are fond of is oranges. This is high in Vitamin C and a powerful antioxidant. Cut into segments leaving the rind intact.

Prawns are a favorite of koi fish. They are high in protein and excellent for summer months when your Koi fish need additional protein.

Insects and larvae will always be welcomed as food by koi. Meal worms, blood worms, black worms, wax worms, tubifex worms and soft-shelled crickets are usually firm favorites for your Koi fish.

Vigilance and regular checking of your koi fish will monitor their progress, health and well being.








Adam B Short is the author of "Starting The Koi Hobby" - compulsory reading for anyone wanting more information on koi fish food. This website contains valuable information on how to easily create & maintain your own stunningly beautiful Koi fish pond with lively & healthy Koi... Even if you have never owned fish before!

For a FREE 10 part mini-course on "The Secrets To Creating & Maintaining a Stunning Koi Fish Pond With Lively & Healthy Koi!" go to => http://thekoifishclub.com/


Sunday, September 26, 2010

The Amazing Array of Koi Fish Colors


The very reason that an increasing number of hobbyists breed koi is the variety of colors they are available in. Thanks to Japanese breeders, koi fish color has evolved over the years with an amazing array of color patterns and scaling. Different varieties have been categorized and given specific names according to color patterns.

Kohaku is a common variety of white koi with red or orange markings on the back. This variety belongs to the Gosanke category. Kohaku means 'red and white' in Japanese, which is where the fish gets its name. Kohaku hi is a white koi that has wide, red markings on its body. Where the red marking is a single pattern it is known as a straight hi. Black koi with red and white markings on its body are known as Showa Sanshoku.

There are plenty of koi colors for hobbyists to choose from. Yellow, white, black, blue, orange, and dark green are popular varieties. Constant crossbreeding has resulted in many koi fish colors and varieties being developed. The butterfly kio and ghost koi are some of the recent varieties, although they are not considered as pure koi at a competitive level.

The koi fish color can change according to the food they eat or the prevailing water conditions. The color usually does not reach its peak until the koi grows to a large size. The breathtaking color patterns are a source of pride for every koi fish owner. Koi fish colors are known to reflect the state of their health. Dull colors may be a sign that the koi are not in good health. This may be due undue exposure to low quality water as well.

It is important to understand more about koi fish colors when you buy koi. Their appearance will help you sort out a healthy shoal. You also need to understand their color pattern and keep a close watch on it when you bring them home. Koi fish colors vary, and add to their value as well. Many koi fish have their own color identities. The Ogon koi come in one color which includes black, yellow, red, white, or orange. The koi fish color needs to be evenly distributed over the body without any specific markings or patterns.

Koi fish color can be enhanced by keeping them on a diet of shrimp, seaweed, plankton, and daphnia. These foods contain carotene that brings out the color in the koi. For this, it is important to understand their feeding behavior. Koi are sensitive to dietary and environmental changes, which can change their color drastically. During summer, koi need to be fed twice or thrice a day since the metabolism is at the highest during this season. During winter, they may be fed once a day or not at all since they has metabolism slowed down as they tend to hibernate. Koi are omnivorous and are open to eating a variety of food. You can feed koi fruit since it is a rich source of minerals and vitamins, which will help enhance koi fish color.

To enhance the beauty of your pond, you will most probably look for the most colorful koi. These are ornamental fish in a true sense, which will make you a proud owner. Moreover, koi are considered lucky. However, as a breeder, all you need to do is provide them with enough care.








Nelson Williams explains the beauty of koi fish color differences. Nelson has raised, studied, bred and cared for hundreds of varieties of Koi. He has become a well respected source of information for breeders and pet care professionals internationally. His twenty plus years of practical experience and research are available in his latest book, Insider's Secrets To Raising Healthy Koi.


Feeding Koi Fish For Good Nutrition


Koi food is basically food specially made for Koi fish. What's so special about Koi fish that they need Koi food?

Koi fish, popular symbols of friendship and love in Japan, is a common carp fish that comes in vibrantly colored assortments. Koi fish is said to have a strong ability to survive and thrive in almost all types of environments, many thanks to their eating ability. Koi fish is considered to be omnivorous for they literally eat about anything - both plant and animal matter. Despite not having stomachs, yes, Koi still continue this eating habit. Not having a stomach though does pose a little problem - no matter how much they want to, Koi fish can not eat a lot of plant and animal matter at a given time. They spend a lot of time eating, and then swimming around, and then spend a reasonable amount of time again looking for more and more food to eat. Koi fish will in fact eat anything that comes there way that is small enough for them to swallow in one time, in one whole. If think if Koi are given bigger bodies and stomachs, they will eat anything!

Now, because of their special eating habits, fish keepers need a special food to keep their brightly colored Koi fish swimming healthily in Koi ponds. This is where Koi food comes in. Remember that the rate of how Koi fish grow and develop depends on the feeding pattern done by the fish owner, and type of Koi food is being provided. Just as much as the growth and development of humans are greatly affected by our food intake, what nutrients gets into our bodies, Koi fish also needs certain nutrients to make them grow faster and swim healthier.

Feeding your Koi fish can be a very fun and relaxing activity. It will also bring you closer to your pet - you can even teach them to eat directly from your hand! So much for eating methods, you need to be sure that you are giving your beloved carp fish the proper Koi food; and in turn, they will be happy, healthy, and live longer. Select the Koi food that offers a lot of nutrients. Be sure to carefully read the box of the Koi food before making any purchases. Remember that providing Koi Fish wit the right variety of interesting and nutritious food will help keep them healthy, happy and much closer to you.

As mentioned about, Koi fish are considered as omnivores, so they are not selective in the type of food that they are going to eat. This puts the responsibility on your hands to be careful about the Koi food that you will feed them. As a starting point, you may go to your local pet store and purchase good quality Koi food - high quality pellet or flake Koi food that the store keeper recommends. Ask for help and select the Koi food that would best satisfy the nutritional needs of your fish.








Andrew Fuller spends much of his free time writing about aquarium related topics on a range of websites. He believes in free information for fish keepers who want to learn about their pass time. You may find koi food to be a useful resource from aquarium fish shop.


How to Care For Koi Fish - The Right Way


These multi colored beauties will give your family endless hours of enjoyment. Koi, Cyprinus carpio, is a colorful variety of the common carp. Koi fish are gorgeous and amazing to watch. Koi will reach over eighteen inches in a few years, and grow up to three feet in length.

Koi are a durable fish from Japan. Koi live longer and are bigger than goldfish, some weighing over forty pounds. These fish have an average lifespan of twenty years. There are reports of Koi living hundreds of years. The fish come in a display of bright colors such as orange, yellow, white, red, and black. You can find fantail koi, which have long draping fins and tails.

In order to know how to care for Koi, you need to know what factors to consider in terms of pond design, pond size and depth, and pond construction before you build your own Koi fishpond. A Japanese or Oriental design is popular in Koi ponds. Features like a waterfall or fountain are an attractive addition. A pond measuring 10 X 10 feet is recommended to hold up to three koi fish. Koi require deeper water than other pond fish. Do not overcrowd the pond because Koi need a large enough area to swim. Smooth rocks will keep them from being injured when they spawn on the bottom of your pond. Koi have been called the 'rabbit of the river'. Each female can lay thousands of eggs in a season.

The most important part of keeping the best quality stock is understanding and properly using Koi pond supplies. Maintain your pond regularly to keep it free of debris. To decrease the risk of having water quality problems, use a pump and filter system throughout the year. Using a pond heater prevents sores, diseases, and guards against temperature changes. Without a heater, Koi will drop to the bottom of the pond and remain inactive.

Koi should be fed daily. There is special Koi pellet food to feed your fish. Koi food is nutritionally balanced, and floats to encourage the fish to the surface. They also enjoy a bit of variety. Koi will often eat peas, lettuce, and watermelons. Koi will recognize the person feeding them and gather around at feeding times. They can be trained to take food from your hand.

Take extra precaution for the safety of your fish against wildlife. There are nets or motion detectors to protect your fish from harm. The Koi's bright colors put them at a severe disadvantage against predators. Raccoons, cats, foxes, and badgers would like to make a meal of your Koi fish.

Koi are some of the most colorful fish in the world. They are symbols of love and friendship in Japan. Koi are believed to bring good luck or fung shui in Chinese culture. You will receive decades of pleasure from knowing how to care for Koi. 

For more information on how to care for Koi, you can visit www.live-koifish.com.








Peter Naumann is an expert and lover of Koi fish. You can visit his website at http://www.live-koifish.com


Koi Fish Food Guidelines


Koi are ornamental domesticated varieties of common carp for decorative purposes in outdoor ponds and dependent on Koi fish food available mainly in pet shops.

Koi are categorized as omnivorous fish thriving for both plant and meat substances. Scientifically-manufactured fish foods are suitable for feeding them to enhance their coloration and propagation.

Koi are cold-water fish which normally live between temperatures of 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77degrees Fahrenheit) and do not react in cold weather temperatures. Their food intake decreases during winter time in view of the fact that their digestive system slowly processes the food they take.

Their appetite comes back when the water becomes warm in spring time.Pet supply shops offer assorted Koi fish food that is scientifically manufactured for Koi and other fish in the form of pellets.

Fish foods are formulated to be nutritionally balanced. Majority of Koi food comes into two varieties: floating and sinking. Floating fish foods encourage Koi to come to the surface and also provide the opportunity to feed your Koi in the palm of your hands. However, Koi are bottom-feeding fish and best suited to sinking food.

Formulated Koi fish food contains various elements such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals which are essential to promote healthy bodies, growth, and propagation. Proteins allow Koi to develop, repair damaged tissues, and produce eggs and sperms.

Carbohydrates are the source of energy for Koi and helps in the metabolism. Fats work in a similar fashion and pro. Vitamins are important for the growth of Koi, normal metabolism, and increased spawning activities. Minerals aid in basic metabolic functions of Koi as well. It includes building skeletal and nerve structures, osmoregulation, and efficiency of gaseous exchange in the blood system.

As an alternative to formulated fish food, Koi can be fed with a wide assortment of food including, watermelons, peas, and lettuce. They often enjoy devouring live foods including cockles, prawns and earthworms. Tadpoles from frogs are fed during spring, while in summer, silkworm pupae are great source of proteins.

Japan exports these live foods for your Koi and has a desiccated variety as well. However, overfeeding of these live foods will bring diseases to your Koi if not monitored properly. It is advised that these be fed as occasional treats to your Koi.

Koi enthusiasts should not rely mostly on live foods as a staple diet for their Koi.

There are some organisms and foodstuff which are not recommended to be fed to your Koi. Maggots are carrier of harmful bacteria from decaying flesh. White bread contains an element of bleach which will do no good to your Koi.

Peas, beans, and corns are hard to digest because of its hard outer casing.

Koi hobbyists should know the basic nutritional guides and feeding manner for their Koi.

Koi should be provided with enough food for them to consume. Leftover fish food will sometimes be stale and lack the nutritional value our Koi needs. Unattended food in the water promotes propagation of bacteria which brings disease and sickness to our Koi.

In order to have a reliable and nutritional fish food, formulated Koi fish food are recommended for feeding your Koi to attain and maintain Koi fish health, ideal color, growth and better propagation.








Randy Tan is a koi breeding expert. For more great tips on koi food and general koi care, visit http://www.koibreedingtips.com.


A Quick Guide to Common Koi Fish Diseases


Your Koi is a unique species of aquatic life. The Koi fish symbolizes friendship and love. It is a popular fish that developed long ago in the 1820s in Japan. They are sometimes known as Japanese Carp. There are several colors and varieties available in the Koi. This fish is often found in an outdoor pool for decorative purposes.

Koi fish can be subject to many different types of koi disease that can be harmful. It is important to inspect your tank regularly and be alert to the different signs and symptoms of these different diseases. Treatment for these koi diseases should be started as soon as a problem is recognized.

Cancer

If your Koi has any indication of a circular area around an open wound, it could be cancer. This type of Koi disease is indicated by a white color with the center being pink. The treatment for this Koi disease is removal of the cancer tissue.

Infection

An open wound that is discolored on your fish could indicate Koi disease infection. Removal of the dead skin surrounding the area is recommended to prevent further infection and to promote healing of the area. You can help your Koi by taking a piece of gauze and rubbing the area. This has to be done extremely gently. A soft toothbrush will work well also.

The Eye

A Koi with an eye disease is quite noticeable. A common Koi disease of the eye is called Popeye or exophthalmia. It is characterized by a protrusion of the eye from the eye socket. The cause of this likely stems from either tuberculosis or a mycobacterial infection.

This is encouraged secondary to an eye granuloma, an eye abscess, a choroid infection, a viral infection or trauma. An eye Koi disease can be difficult to resolve as the Koi's eyes have a limited vascularity. The medications used to treat an eye disease in the Koi are not highly receptive to this area. Tuberculosis in a Koi fish can be transmitted to humans. Caution when dealing with this problem is highly recommended.

The Mouth

An ulcer or an abscess may be found in some Koi fish. Your Koi will have difficulty closing its mouths if he comes down with this affliction. This ulcer or abscess will most likely have come from a bacterial infection. The infection travels through the mouth region and inflames the ligaments of the Koi fish's mouth.

Starting your Koi fish on an antibiotic as soon as possible is ideal. However, permanent damage to your Koi may already have taken place.

Enjoy your Koi fish and act upon the first sign of any illness to avoid further koi disease of your favourite pet. Always consult your local vet or koi expert if you are in doubt at all. It could be disastrous to leave any koi disease untreated.








Adam B Short is the author of "Starting The Koi Hobby" - compulsory reading for anyone concerned about their sick koi. The website contains valuable information on how to easily create & maintain your own stunningly beautiful Koi fish pond with lively & healthy Koi... Even if you have never owned fish before!

For a FREE 10 part mini-course on "The Secrets To Creating & Maintaining a Stunning Koi Fish Pond With Lively & Healthy Koi!" go to => http://thekoifishclub.com/


Getting to Know Red Koi Fish


The Japanese take pride breeding koi fish, with an amazing variety of colors and combinations that include red koi fish. The colors and patterns are indeed a great source of pride for owners and breeders, who treasure their collection. Apart from red, koi fish come in black, white, and yellow as well. The colors must be bright in order for them to be graded as quality koi. Dull colors are usually signs that the koi are not in perfect health. Red koi fish must be bright red for it to be considered of the highest quality. At times the quality of the water may make the color appear dull.

It is important to understand how red fish as well as other varieties look when you buy them. Understanding the color pattern will also help you keep a closer watch on the health of your koi collection. The color of koi has inspired the Japanese to used different terms to categorize them. It is possible to enhance the color of koi by keeping them on a good diet of shrimp, seaweed, plankton, and marigold. These foods contain carotenes which are known to bring out the color of koi. Many Ogon koi are in one solid color which is evenly distributed throughout the body with no marking or patterns.

Each color symbolizes something according to Japanese culture. The symbolism is fairly uniform among breeders and collectors. Red koi symbolizes true romantic love, which makes them a perfect gift for a lover. White on the other hand is a symbol of advancement in society and in career. Black signifies life's transformations, while yellow indicates wealth and prosperity. A combination of the colors in a koi leaves you with the privilege to ascribe symbolisms as you wish.

Red koi need as much care as any other pet. They could live up to thirty years or more, with a great deal living much longer than that. It is important to do a bit of research on koi fish before you go out to buy your first collection. There are plenty of books, koi experts, and of course, the internet, from where you can learn a lot about red koi fish.

Make sure your koi pond is properly prepared and the fish have plenty of space to swim around. An 18 inch deep pond that can fill up to a thousand gallons of water is the minimum requirements for red koi fish. Make sure you add a number of hiding spots for the fish to stay away from predators such as cats and birds. The pH level of the water should be between 7.5 and 8.5. The filtration system should run for a while before you introduce the red koi fish into the pond. This gives the useful bacteria enough time to begin maintaining the right chemical balance of your pond.

When buying red koi fish, look for healthy fish that is brightly colored, with erect fins, clear eyes, and scales intact. Younger koi of up to 3-4 inches long are usually less expensive. Older red koi fish of about two feet can cost anything in the range of $1000 to $10,000. Undoubtedly, red koi fish will and a brilliant splash of color to your koi pond. With proper maintenance and care, you can expect to be a proud collector for years to come.








Nelson Williams offers more info on the beauty of red koi fish. Nelson has raised, studied, bred and cared for hundreds of varieties of Koi. He has become a well respected source of information for breeders and pet care professionals internationally. His twenty plus years of practical experience and research are available in his latest book, Insider's Secrets To Raising Healthy Koi.


Black Koi Fish - The Shadow of the Rainbow


If you've ever come across a man-made pond and seen beautiful multicolored fish swimming around then you know what a koi fish is. Koi, meaning carp in Japanese, were specially bred to produce their incredibly ornate and colorful bodies. For the most part, koi are identical to regular carp except for the striking designs covering their body making them the favorite of people all over the world. Many folks travel regularly just to visit koi ponds so they could spend some time with the koi, feed them, and watch them play.

Adding to the effect that the rainbow colored koi fish has on the casual observer is the length of the fish as well. Japanese koi fish grow to an average length of 36 inches or about 3 feet. Watching a group of these koi fish swim together can be mesmerizing and many people find themselves wanting to watch the fish for hours as their beauty and grace are incredibly relaxing on the mind. 

Koi have been around for hundreds of years and just as regular carp, they can live to have more than two hundred birthdays in the wild; in captivity, they live an average of 34 years.

One interesting feature about the koi fish is the ability of some of them to actually change their colors. They do this for a variety of reasons but most of the time their color changes are because of changes in the water temperature or their diet. One species of koi fish well known for this color changing habit is the simple black koi.

Sometimes when you're watching a school of koi you may see what appears to be a large shadow swimming underneath, but this is no shadow; it is actually a black koi fish. Black koi fish have no distinguishing differences between their colored brethren and are simply named because they are dark in color. Because of their black color, it is very easy to notice when a black koi changes its color. Depending on the coloring of their undersides, which are sometimes completely white, a black koi can sometimes grow several shades lighter almost appearing to be a completely different fish.

Black Koi can establish an almost ominous presence when viewed against the other colorful fish in a koi pond. Their sleek streamlined shape makes these dark koi appear almost as if they are torpedoes shooting through the water. Because most koi ponds have dark linings, black koi almost seem to disappear completely in the shallow depths of the pond. Because of their stark contrast to the other fish, black koi are often nicknamed the shadow of the rainbow.

So the next time that you find yourself standing over a man-made pond full of colorful fish, be sure to look a little closer. Underneath the orange, yellow and red fish swimming all around, you may catch a glimpse of something hovering just below; the black koi, the shadow of the rainbow.








Matt Phillips is a koi expert. For more great tips on black koi fish and koi ponds visit http://www.KoiCareAndSupplies.com.


Saturday, September 25, 2010

Koi Health - Understanding the Basic Anatomy and Make Up of a Koi Fish


Get to know your Koi fish better and keep your Koi fish healthy by understanding their basic anatomy. Read this useful and important summary of the koi's anatomy and physiology.

KOI BASICS

Koi fish is simply a carp that has been selectively bred in order to develop stunning patterns, colors and body shape. Koi are a fairly hardy fish, demanding relatively low-oxygen conditions and an ability to adapt to still, silty water. They are good at being transported which partly explains their popularity as they can be shipped all around the world under quite basic conditions.

KOI'S FUSIFORM SHAPE

The Koi's body is 'fusiform' meaning it tapers towards each end. Their shape and proportion does depend on the particular Koi variety but anatomically, they are not so different from their predecessors.

THE ESSENTIAL ANATOMY OF THE KOI

Scales Most Koi have scales over most of their bodies, except for the head. Some koi varieties only have scales along the lateral line and dorsal line (called Doitsu or German-scaled koi) Healthy koi generally have all their scales in-tact as holes in the skin may allow bacteria to enter.

Nostrils The nostrils are just in front of the eyes and are used primarily for scent.

Gills The gills of a fish serve a similar purpose to our lungs. They absorb the oxygen in the water and help to transport that to the body. Carbon dioxide is released into the water via the gills too.

Mouth The Koi's mouth is slightly below the tip of the head.

Eyes The eyes of a Koi fish are just in front of the gills. They are positioned to let the Koi see in two directions at the same time.

Ears Like most fish, Koi do not have external ears. They have internal ears that respond to the vibrations in the water.

Barbel This is an organ that looks like a whisker which is found in the mouth of some fish and turtles. They contain sense receptors that help to find food.

Heart Koi has a two-chambered heart that pumps heart around the body.

Pectoral Fins The two pectoral fins are on each lower side. They move in opposing directions. The Koi uses them to rotate on the same axis and for braking. Sometimes they are used to stir up the bottom of the pond when the Koi is searching for food.

Liver The liver is a key part of the Koi and essential for good Koi health as it serves many important functions from cleaning up blood and cleansing away toxic substances to producing bile for digestion and cholesterol for healthy nerve and cell function.

Gall bladder The gall bladder stores bile which helps with digestion

Pelvic Fin The pelvic fins are on each of the lower sides, about midway down the body. They help the koi fish rise or descend in the water

Spleen The spleen produces lymph cells and stores red blood cells.

Kidney The kidney acts like a filter to help fight disease and also allows excess water to exit the body as urine.

Swim bladder The swim bladder has two different sized chambers that can be inflated or deflated to control the orientation and level at which the fish swims

Reproductive Organs Male koi have testes and females have ovaries. Eggs and sperm exit the body via gonopores which are just in front of the urinary opening.

Anal Pore This lies just in front of the anal fin for the release of waste products including urine

Urinary Bladder Another key part of the Koi and vital for their health. The Koi has a higher salt content than its environment and must release excess water to equalize the salt concentration in a process called osmosis.

Lateral Line The lateral line is a clearly visible line runs along the mid-body of the Koi and contains special pores that detect vibrations through the water. It is often called the koi fish's sixth sense.

Dorsal Fin This is at the top of the fish and it used for stabilization, namely keeping the koi upright. The dorsal fin may be lowered for a more streamlined body form when moving quickly through the water.

Anal Fin Used for stability

Tail or Caudal The tail acts like a rudder and to increase speed.

Now you know the essential parts that make up a koi fish, you can start to understand the different between Koi and other types of pet fish such as goldfish and help keep your koi healthy.








Gemma Swansburg is a writer/researcher. Read her latest article, a series of reviews for Luminess Tan the at-home self tanning system featured in Allure Magazine. To find out why Luminess Tan works so well and for the best prices for Luminess Tan and other airbrush tanning equipment, visit her site at airbrushmakeupfoundation.com


Maintaining Your Koi Fish Aquarium


Undoubtedly, fish make popular pets while being great stress busters at the same time. A koi fish aquarium full of colorful koi swimming gracefully is enough to mesmerize anyone. If you have a passion for taking care of fish then you may be thinking of buying a koi fish aquarium. The wide range and colorful patterns that these fish sport can brighten up any home. However, there are some important things to consider prior to purchasing a koi aquarium.

Serious koi breeders aren't too keen on these fish being housed in an indoor aquarium. However, for the average enthusiast, an indoor koi fish aquarium is a great way to protect these fish from the weather and proudly display their collection. In colder conditions, monitoring them indoors is a convenient option. The best part of an aquarium is that they the fish can be seen from different angles, unlike a koi pond where they can be observed only from the top.

To begin with, your koi fish aquarium needs to be of a reasonable size. These fish grow to large proportions, depending on the amount of space they have. Ten gallons of water is needed for every inch of koi, excluding the tail. So make sure you are able to work within this calculation. Koi can grow to a large size very quickly, which is another factor you need to consider. A four inch Koi can grow up to 12 inches in a year, which means your tank will fill up soon. Don't think of overcrowding them or else that could spell doom for your koi fish aquarium.

Koi are playful fish and there is danger of them jumping out of the water, therefore, you will need to install a net over the koi fish aquarium to prevent any disaster. You also need to provide sufficient aeration and filtration for the aquarium since koi excrete plenty of waste due to their frequent eating habits. Negligence on your behalf can cause the fish to fall ill or even die, not to mention the wasted effort and money that you invest.

Koi fish need to be fed much less during winter months, while they tend to eat much more in summer. They are omnivorous and eat a variety of food. Koi are much like many other pets and grow accustomed to the person feeding them, and will eventually end up feeding from your hand. During spring, you need to pay extra attention to the water temperature of your aquarium. This is the time when the temperature is irregular, which is not good for koi. Don't refrain seeking the advice of koi fish experts or pet shop owners if you have any apprehensions about taking care of a koi fish aquarium.

Koi fish are harmless and never pose a danger to smaller fish. Moreover, their mouths are soft and toothless. As long as you take care of your aquarium you can expect them to live for many years, sometimes as long as twenty or thirty years. These beautiful and colorful creatures are a symbol of love and friendship in Japan and make great gifts. They are also said to bring good luck to people who receive them, so why not gift your friends and family a koi fish aquarium today.








Nelson Williams offers more info about your kio fish aquarium. Nelson has raised, studied, bred and cared for hundreds of varieties of Koi. He has become a well respected source of information for breeders and pet care professionals internationally. His twenty plus years of practical experience and research are available in his latest book, Insider's Secrets To Raising Healthy Koi.


Essential Elements for Proper Koi Fish Care


Koi fish is one of the most popular preferences for pet fish these days. That is because Koi fish is a dazzling and colorful ornamental type of pet fish. This much sought after types of pet fish are mostly adorned on garden ponds (landscaped mostly) and aquariums.

Koi fish is a type of fish that belongs to the domesticated and ornamental variant of the "carp" family. These types of ornamental pet fish are widely domesticated and available to almost all parts of the world (except Antarctica). So if you are thinking of having Koi fish as you pet, it is important that you must know all the essential information regarding on how to properly take care of the Koi fish. Also, it is very important that you must know everything there is to know in taking care of the Koi fish.

One of the most essential factors in taking care of the Koi fish is that you must know what are required in order for the Koi fish to be health and of course, alive. Negligence may and can cause the lives of the Koi fish, not to mention the wasted effort and money that you have invested on the pet fish.

Proper care for the Koi fish also means that you must know the seasonal care of your pet fish. That is because Koi fish have different caring needs in every season. For example, during spring season, you must give extra attention on the water temperature of the garden pond or aquarium of the Koi fish. That is because the temperature of the water during this season is irregular meaning it can either rise or fall in an instant (which is not good for the pet fish).

Also, you must always provide your Koi fish not just with adequate source of food but also with the appropriate food. It is essential that you feed your Koi fish the right kind and the right amount of food. When it comes to feeding, you must consider several issues such as the size of the garden pond or aquarium and the type of filter that is used. Always take extra effort in taking care of the garden pond or aquarium such as cleaning the filters. Remember the top most essential elements in taking proper care of the Koi fish are, the number of Koi fishes in the pond or aquarium, the season and appropriate food and proper feeding.

These are just some of the few essential elements that you must know before taking the Koi fish from the pet store. Do not hesitate to ask questions and advice from Koi fish experts or the pet shop owner for the essential information that you must know in order for your ornamental pet fish to be with you longer. Because not only these dazzling and vibrant ornamental pet fish are fun to look at (especially when feeding), some Koi fish keepers say that Koi fish are lucky.

For more information about koi fish, visit








Sherlock Four is a writer and a pet lover. Read more information on how to care koi fish [http://www.about-koi-fish.com/caring-koi-fish] on his articles at About-Koi-Fish.com [http://www.about-koi-fish.com].


Koi Fish Are a Relative of the Simple Fish


From simple carp to colorful koi

Koi fish are a relative of the simple fish, carp. Koi, in fact, means carp in Japanese. One of the distinctive characteristics that set koi apart from regular carp is their incredibly ornamental colors. When the Japanese first began interbreeding the species, carp were only found in one or two colors, but through careful nurturing, koi fish can now be found in a rainbow of beautiful colors. Because of this, koi fish are a popular find in decorative ponds kept by homeowners all over the world. They are an enduring breed of fish and can sometimes live up to as much as two hundred years, but kept in captivity, most koi live to be between twenty five and thirty five years old.

Identifying a male koi from a female one can be a difficult prospect. They are very similar in appearance, but make koi fish display a few distinguishing characteristics. For one, a male koi is sleeker and more streamlined than the bulkier female. In addition, male koi tend to be a bit more skittish than their female counterparts. A final identifying feature of a male koi fish is concave depression near their anal opening.

A spawning female may lay as many 1000 eggs from which FRY, or baby wish will hatch in approximately one week. The baby koi do not develop their colorful markings until they are about 12 weeks old.

One type of koi, the black koi, shares some interesting individual characteristics. While not as brightly colored as other koi, black koi are striking in their appearance and are a favorite of many decorative pond owners. Black koi typically grow to a length of about 36 inches and must be kept in well maintained larger ponds. Some owners make the mistake of creating small goldfish type ponds, but koi, because of their size, need more room to move about. The Magoi Koi is one of the first all black koi fish developed. They are really a dark bronze, but when seen from the type, they appear all black. The Magoi are one of the larger species of koi and the blood of the Magoi is being used in other species to help speed up growth in those fish as well.

Another type of black koi is the Karasu, which translated, means CROW in Japanese. These are more truly all black in color, but interesting might have a white or orange underside.

One unique feature of koi fish is their ability to change color. This can be due to the affects of their surroundings or the type of food they eat. The Matsukawabake koi, another type of black koi, is renowned for this ability. This black koi will change from all white, to all black at different times.

Koi fish have been enjoyed for thousands of years by people all over the world. Their large size and ornate coloring make them an added attraction to any landscaped or floral setting. Many people visit koi feeding ponds located at various attractions internationally and enjoy the beauty and grace of what was once just a simple carp.








Matt Phillips is a koi expert. For more great tips on koi care and koi ponds visit http://www.KoiCareAndSupplies.com.


The Beauty of Butterfly Koi Fish


The beautiful Butterfly Koi Fish gets its name from the decorative finnage that resembles the delicate wings of a butterfly. Being of a hybrid variety, these fish are not considered by many breeders as a true Koi. This particular koi fish has been bred only since the 1980s, along with Dragon carp and Longfin Koi. The earlier varieties of Koi were distinguished by their coloration, pattern, and scalation. However, new variants like the Butterfly Koi have distinct characteristics with unusually long, flowing fins.

The true origin of this unique fish is often debated due to its crossbreeding. Some aquarists are of the opinion that they are a cross between ordinary Koi and Asain carp. Today, most breeders strive to create ornamental and colorful Koi, with butterfly Koi being a popular variety. Traditional Koi shows tend to disregard them because of their hybrid origin. Like traditional Koi, butterfly come in different patterns and colors, with white, yellow, and orange in combination being most common.

Apart from long, flowing fins, butterfly koi fish have longer barbells and bigger nares as compared to traditional koi. The smaller varieties are kept in aquariums, while the bigger that reach up to 36 inches are bred in ponds. They don't require much maintenance as long as they are fed properly and kept in a stable environment. This koi fish has a peaceful temperament and don't mind the company of humans at any time.

What is distinctive about butterfly koi fish is that their dorsal, pectoral, ventral, and caudal fins are almost featherlike in appearance. The Japanese call them 'living jewels' or also as Dragon Koi because of their colorful appearance. They can also easily be interbred with standard koi. Their entry into the US was through breeder Wyatt Lefever who crossed Asian Koi with metallic colored Koi.

Although butterfly koi fish cannot be judged in competitions according to the rules for standard Koi, many breeders still hold these specific competitions. Their fin to body ratio exceeds that of standard koi by over 500%. Therefore, they cannot receive the same points as standard koi in a competition. Moreover, the patterns and color variations are different. The new version of butterfly koi is slender, which is more noticeable when you look down on the fish. The American Koi Club Association has set new standards to judge these fish.

If you wish to breed koi, make sure you provide them a pond with at least 1,000 gallons of water. Fill the pond up with sturdy plants since they like to nibble at the roots. However, make sure the base of the plant is protected with large stones. Make sure the pH levels of the water are between 6.8 and 7.2. dH levels must be maintained between 2 and 12. Like carp, butterfly koi are sturdy and can live comfortably in temperatures from 33 to 90? Fahrenheit.

As like all other koi, the gentle nature of butterfly koi make them excellent pond fish. They are tolerant and resistant to disease which makes them a popular choice among breeders all over the world. Taking care of butterfly koi fish is a pleasurable experience that can give you priceless hours of enjoyment and fulfillment. The little bit of effort you put into bringing them up will be worth it in the long run.








Nelson Williams offers more info about butterfly koi fish. Nelson has raised, studied, bred and cared for hundreds of varieties of Koi. He has become a well respected source of information for breeders and pet care professionals internationally. His twenty plus years of practical experience and research are available in his latest book, Insider's Secrets To Raising Healthy Koi.


Friday, September 24, 2010

Taking Care of Your Koi Fish Garden


There is nothing more rewarding that building and maintaining your own koi pond, which can be transformed into a koi fish garden, that includes the koi, a pond, and a variety of plant life. The larger the koi fish garden, the better the fish will grow and flourish. The pond must be at least four feet deep so that the fish are protected from predators such as cats and birds. Moreover, with a large pond it is easy to add to your collection of koi.

A koi fish garden ought to be built in a shady area, away from direct sunlight. An ideal location would be under a tree, however, you will need to keep a net over the pond to prevent leaves from falling in. Sunlight hastens the growth of algae, which makes the water dirty much faster. In addition, you will need to make sure the area is free from chemicals and pesticides, which can harm your collection of koi tremendously. Add plenty of plants to your koi fish garden. They don't always coexist because koi are notorious for digging up plants in the pond. The easier the access koi have to the base of plants the quicker they will uproot them. It is prudent to place small pea rock at the base of the plants and then put larger rocks on top of them to keep the plants secure. Fine netting around the plants will also do the trick.

Your koi fish garden is essentially an outdoor aquarium, which needs constant monitoring and care. Your koi garden is an ecosystem of which you can be proud. Therefore, you need to get the best equipment and follow the rules for cultivating koi. The most important element of your koi fish garden is the quality of the water. Oxygen levels in stagnant or water that does not flow is less, which is why you will need to use a water pump. There are a variety of pumps available and can be used as parts of man-made waterfalls or fountains too. While being a functional piece of equipment a pump also adds an aesthetic value to your koi fish garden. A water pump ensures a constant supply of oxygen and flushes out the dirt from below, making it easier to clean.

To maintain your koi fish garden make sure you don't overfeed the fish. This will only increase fish waste, making it more difficult to keep the pond clean. According to expert breeders, kois should be fed only as much as they can finish in five minutes. Keep the food in floaters so that the koi are encouraged to come to the top without disturbing the bottom of the pond.

The best way to maintain cleanliness of the water in a koi fish garden is with a filtration system, which consists of a mechanical filter and a bio-filter. A bio-filter eliminates the chemicals while a mechanical filter removes the dirt and debris. In addition, you ought to make sure that the volume of water is sufficient and that the koi are not overcrowded. Kois grow quickly, and adding more koi to the pond may prove too small an area for them later on. Overcrowding your koi fish garden will cause stress or stunted growth of the fish.

With a little bit of effort, caring for your koi fish garden can be made easy. Undoubtedly, the rewards and benefits that you reap will far outweigh the hard work you put in.








Nelson Williams offers more info about having your own koi fish garden. Nelson has raised, studied, bred and cared for hundreds of varieties of Koi. He has become a well respected source of information for breeders and pet care professionals internationally. His twenty plus years of practical experience and research are available in his latest book, Insider's Secrets To Raising Healthy Koi.


Things That You Must Expect When Buying Koi Fish


If you are thinking of purchasing Koi fish, there are several guidelines that you must first consider before buying. It is important that you must first be acquainted with what there is to know regarding Koi fish. It is also important that you must not hastily buy the first Koi fish that you like, because you might be disappointed buying them. Remember, Koi fish are ornamental pet fish that is usually enjoyed for a long time (for those who do not know, Koi fish can live as long as six decades or sixty years and can also grow as long as three feet).Koi fish is a Japanese-bred fish that is related to the carp family and is primarily designed as an ornament. Koi fish are major attractions to homeowners and pet lovers because of the immense beauty and coloring.

Guidelines in Buying Koi fish

Nowadays, there are many people that are captivated by the dazzling and magnificent beauty of Koi fish. Most of them are enticed to collect numerous and sometimes expensive Koi fish. The most dazzling and magnificent Koi fish can cost as much as half a million dollars. Koi fish can be purchased on your local pet shop or through a public or private source, or through amateur or expert Koi fish breeders or collectors. A pond set up for a collection of Koi fish cannot be completed at once with just a wink of an eye. Accumulating and gathering Koi fishes for breeding usually takes time. Accumulating sufficient amount of Koi fish collections is surely an investment that accounts to sufficient money, heartache, and time devotions.

Things that you must expect when buying Koi fish

Most people have lots of expectations when buying Koi fish. Mostly these expectations are the main reason why they want to buy these beautiful ornamental pet fishes. For the most part, it is important that you will be the one to choose your own personal taste when it comes to the type or variety of the Koi fish that you want to obtain. If you are planning to purchase Koi fish, it is important that you first consider several factors such as the variety of the Koi fish, quality, the price range and where you will be buying the Koi fish. Most of all always make sure that your budget for the Koi fish is sufficient enough. Bear in mind that it is essential that you must have sufficient or adequate funds to sustain the maintenance of the Koi fish (such as foods, maintenance and in some cases, medications).

Keep in mind that having Koi fish is not as easy as other types of pets. These dazzling ornamental pet fish require extra effort in keeping them (such as garden pond or aquarium maintenance, foods, electricity for the filter, etc.). They typically need added attention especially during spring season. That is when the water temperature of the garden pond or aquarium becomes erratic, of which can cause consequences.








Sherlock Four is a writer and a pet lover. Read more information on guides in buying koi fish [http://www.about-koi-fish.com/buying-guides/] on his articles at About-Koi-Fish.com [http://www.about-koi-fish.com].


Caring For Koi - How to Start a Koi Fish Hobby


Koi fish are stunning, smart, live and long time and provide great satisfaction for any fish hobbyist. Don't just have a Koi fish tattoo, have a real Koi fish! Here are the essential tips for starting a Koi hobby.

SHOULD YOU START A Koi FISH HOBBY

Obviously, the first reason you should start a hobby is if it makes you happy. Koi fish are beautiful, interesting and caring for them can be a truly satisfying experience. Watching them happily swimming about in their vibrant and varied colors can help you relax and relieve stress. If trained well, they will even eat fish food from your hands. Meanwhile serious Koi fish breeders will swear that they have unique personalities.

There is the cost to consider first of all.

You will also need a decent sized pond, as they may grow up to 3 feet. You need at least a 1,000 liters of water per fish, with at least 18 inches of pond depth. The pond needs a filtration system to remove waste products, aeration to add oxygen into the water and regular care and maintenance. Don't let this put you off, looking after a pond can be as rewarding as gardening, as you add landscaping features, plants and, of course, add to your Koi fish collection.

Certain types of small Koi may only cost a few dollars, but the rarer varieties and sizes can cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. To offset costs, owners are known to sell off their extra fish once they have grown larger. In general young Koi are cheaper than the more mature ones. Koi do not mature until they are about eight years old, so you have plenty of time to watch them develop.

BE COMMITTED: Koi FISH ARE ONE OF THE OLDEST LIVING ANIMALS

The other thing to consider is the lifespan of the Koi. The oldest recorded Koi fish lived to 200 years old but the average lifespan is 25 to 35 years. That puts this particular carp right up there in the list of animals who live the longest, up with certain tortoises, sturgeon and the blue-and-yellow macaw. So be prepared for the long haul!

BUYING A Koi FISH

The beauty of Koi fish lies in their shapes and color mutations. So, part of the enjoyment of starting a Koi fish hobby is picking the fish in the first place. Like most things, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Find a breeder or pet shop which has a decent range of Koi fish varieties, so you have plenty of choice. It is best not to invest in your collection all at once. Built it up slowly, not only will you gradually learn about the varieties you prefer, but there is a certain satisfaction to choosing and buy the right fish so why not stretch out the fun!

Look at the fish closely to see if they look healthy. They should be swimming freely and smoothly and be without any visible physical damage. Make sure there are no holes or ulcerations in the scales, a crooked spine, missing fins, gills that do not close flat and so on. They should eat well and look as though they are breathing normally.

THE BEST PLACE TO BUY Koi FISH

Do not rush this process. Take your time to find a good Koi dealer in your area. Look for a place that is clean and the fish are not overcrowded. Ask the shop owner where the fish come from, the variety, if there are any specific arrangements for keeping them. It is okay to buy fish online but ask how they will be transporting the fish and what track record they have had in this.

THE BEST TIME TO BUY Koi FISH

Make sure you pond is ready, tested and established before purchasing your fish. Plus, it is probably best to avoid November or December when buying ornamental fish for the first time if the area in which you live suffers from harsh winters and you do not have a heated pond or water garden.

No two Koi are alike and caring for your fish, watching them grow into the large and majestic pets will give you tremendous satisfaction. If you start your hobby in the right way, with the right foresight and planning, you are sure to enjoy keeping them for many years to come.








Gemma Swansburg is a writer/researcher who could watch fish merrily swimming for hours on end. Read Gemma's latest article, a review for Luminess Tan, the airbrush tanning system featured in Allure Magazine. For special prices, trial offers and great before/after images for the Luminess tan solution and other airbrush self-tanners, visit her site at airbrushmakeupfoundation.com


The History of Koi Fish and Surprising Koi Fish Facts


Koi Fish have become the most expensive and sought after ornamental fish. The hobby of keeping koi did not start out this way. Read all about the beautiful Koi fish, its fascinating history, surprising koi fish facts and how koi fish keeping and breeding became the hugely popular hobby it is today.

Today, Koi fish are kept mainly in landscaped ponds and large aquariums for their pure aesthetic appeal. This was not always the case however. In their early days, Koi were simply bred for food.

Probably the most surprising koi fish fact is that they did not originate from Japan. Their exact origin and date of introduction to Japan has been much debated by Koi historians.

THE ORIGINS OF THE KOI FISH

Various Koi experts have said that Koi came from parts of Eastern Europe, Eastern Asia and China around 2,500 years ago. Koi actually means "carp" in Japanese and there are a lot of varieties of carp so that is probably why there was a lot of confusion and non-specifics surrounding its early history.

However, the carp we know today as Koi fish are actually Nishikigoi ("living jewels" or "brocaded" carp). This is the variety of carp which possess those beautiful colors and patterns we have grown to love. Although the Koi may not have originated from Japan, it was the Japanese who took the Nishikigoi and fine-tuned the art of breeding them to their stunning color mutations you see today.

KOI'S HUMBLE BEGINNINGS AND INTRODUCTION TO JAPAN

Chinese rice farmers originally bred Koi as fish food around the 17th century. They were brought to Japan, also to be used as fish food, by Japanese rice farmers in Niigata Prefecture.

Around the 1820s and 1830s, the Japanese began to breed Koi for their aesthetic appeal. Some farmers brought the koi back to the ponds in their garden. This is how Koi started to become ornamental fish for ponds.

HOW THE KOI HAS DEVELOPED

The Bunka and Bunsei Era (1804-1829) saw the development of the Koi with the distinctive red marking on their cheeks. White koi were also introduced at this time, and when crossed with the Koi with the red cheeks, they produced a white Koi with a red abdomen.

The Tenpo Era (1830-1843) introduced the white Koi with red on its forehead, the red headed koi and the koi with red lips.

In the Meija Era (1868-1912) carp from Germany were bred with nishikigoi, producing the doitsu. Koi breeders realized that different types of Koi bred together could create wonderful mutations of color.

The Taisho Era (1912-1926) saw the development of the white koi to levels of perfection with the red and black patterned white koi. Koi were showcased at the Tokyo exhibition of 1915 and that is when the Koi craze began to take off around the world.

One of the earliest of the developed Koi was the "Kohaku" with its white body and crisp red patterns.

In the early 1900s, black markings were introduced to the basic Kohaku red and white patterns to create the "Sanke" or "Sanshoku".

In 1927, the "Showa" was created: a black koi with red and white markings.

In 1946, the 'ogon' or metallic yellow koi was developed. This led to other metallic koi versions being produced.

From the 1920s to the 1980s, Koi development took a incredible leap forward. Koi did not only become a huge hobby, it became a lucrative business. More varieties were bred, some 'one-time hits' were created which were never to be seen again while others become firm favorites.

THE BIG THREE

The Kohaku (white body, red patterns), the Sanke (white body, red and black patterns) and the Showa (jet-black base with white and red markings) are known as "Gosanke" or "three families". In the US and Europe, they are often called "The Big Three".

THE BASIC TYPES OF KOI AND GETTING STARTED

Overall, there are 15 different types of Koi, as differentiated by colors and size, in the standard classification. If you are keeping Koi as a hobby, a good place to start is to familiarize yourself with the 15 different types and think about the ones you enjoy looking at the most.

Remember, just like snowflakes, no two Koi are exactly alike and that is one of the reasons they make such fascinating fish.








Gemma Swansburg is a writer/researcher. Read her latest article, about Luminess Tan the at-home self tanning airbrush system featured in Allure Magazine. For best prices, special offers and great tutorials on applying the Luminess Tan solution and details about other airbrush make up systems, visit her site at airbrushmakeupfoundation.com


What is the best way to construct a garden pond for my Mom?

Adam the Engineer fragt:

My mom has always wanted a pond/fountain in her front yard. So, this year for Mother’s Day me and my brothers are going to build her one. What is the best and cheepest way to do this and have it look nice? Also are fountains or waterfalls better and/or easier to maintian?

Tags: Front Yard, Mom

This entry was posted on Friday, May 29th, 2009 at 6:06 am and is filed under Koi Pond. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.


View the original article here

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Before You Make Any Serious Mistakes With Your Fish Koi Pond

When you're new to Koi, it's easy to get over-enthusiastic about getting started with building the fish Koi pond. That is, until you find out how much money it's going to cost you.

Yes, Koi keeping is a hobby that could raise cause for alarm in your pocket book. It's not something you want to jump into without making sure you can afford it first.

That said; keeping Koi is not completely unaffordable. There are money-saving opportunities in building the pond. One of these options is by buying a pond liner instead of building a block and concrete pond.

Now, I'm not against pond liners. I'm sure that there are some brands available that have proven to be very effective liners. It's just that unless you know pond liners like the back of your hand, my advice is you're probably better off not buying one.

Pond liners generally cost less up front than a concrete fish Koi pond, but when you take into account the near-impossibility of laying the liner in the hole and ironing out all the creases, while taking care not to puncture any part of it ... the effort is simply not worth it.

Another way you might be able to save money is by building your own Koi pond. After all, how hard can it be to dig a hole, cement it in, fill it with water and throw a couple of fish in, right? That's what I told myself before I practically pulled all my hair out with frustration and rage over all the mistakes I made.

Take it from me. If you're going to be spending the money anyway, spend it wisely. If you don't have any experience in Koi pond building, or any skill with concrete, don't start by building your own Koi pond. At least don't do it without expert help.

If there's anything you get out of reading this, I hope it's: Always Ask for Professional Advice. Because with keeping a fish Koi pond, when something goes wrong, it REALLY goes kaput. Leaks are your worst possible enemy. Believe me when I say this: Pay the pros. It is money well spent.

I'm not saying that you can't get involved in the process. On the contrary - you need to be very involved. You can share your pond visions with your professional builder - where you want it, how big you want the pond, the shape of the pond and so forth. The more specific you are, the easier it will be for them to do their job, and the happier you will be with the end result.

The next lesson I hope you get out of reading this is: Beware of Cheap Quotes. That sends the red flag up in my book. If a pond builder quote is too good to be true, it probably is. Don't go with cheap - it'll come back to bite you in the pocket.

A fish Koi pond is very complex and when built the right way, will cost more than having a swimming pool built. Don't laugh. I'm not making this up.

Another lesson to learn from embarking on this great adventure called Koi keeping is this: Koi Ponds are Permanent. I know that sounds obvious, but it still needs to be said. Because they are permanent, you need to plan ahead and keep a couple of thoughts in mind while having the pond built:

1. If you plan on using a liner, have a plan ready for when the liner expires (yes, they have expected expiration dates). Having a liner pond may cost you less in the short run, but you'll make it up when it expires. I advise having a concrete pond built by an experienced professional. You pay more up front, but you save money (not to mention your sanity) in the long run.

2. Hire an architect who has experience in designing fish Koi pond structures to design yours. Ask for references you can contact. This is important. I have seen many strikingly designed Koi ponds that can't keep a Koi alive in it. (Sorry, architects.)

Make sure the architect and pond builder can work together - you want all the features to be functional too, otherwise you'll be spending a ton of money and time correcting mistakes that could have been avoided in the first place. A properly designed and planned Koi pond might take some time and a little bit of money, but you won't regret the expense when enjoying the longevity of rewards in the long run.

3. Bottom drains are KEY. Get one built in.

4. Join your local Koi Society. See what others have done. Ask questions. Any fish Koi pond owner will be more than happy to give you as much information about Koi keeping as your ears can handle! It's always best to see and experience Koi in person.

Points to ponder when designing your Koi pond:

1. Building a Koi pond is like building a house. It's about Location, Location, Location. Do you have building restrictions? Do you want the pond in the sun or in the shade or a little of both? Put the pond somewhere you go to every day.

2. Architecture. Make sure the theme of the pond matches the rest of your living space. Your architect can help you with this.

3. Size. In this case, bigger is better.

4. Depth. Minimum 1.5 meters. The deeper the better.

5. Level. Do you want it at ground level or raised?

6. Fiberglass or not?








Jessica Arons specializes in Koi fish care and is currently working with the Koi Fish School team. For more great Fish Koi Pond tips visit The Koi Fish School today.

Tips to Take Proper Care of Koi Carp Fish


Koi carp fish are known for their long life and vivacious colors. This is a very famous variety that inhabits numerous outdoor ponds. If you have an outdoor pond, then you can make a beautiful addition of Koi into it. But there is a matter of concern; you need to take proper care of Koi. Earlier these fish used to live for more than 200 years but now their life cycle spreads around 30 years. Proper care of health and pond maintenance must be taken to enhance the longevity of lovely Koi.

There are several varieties of Koi carp fish and they are famous for their diversity of beautiful vibrant colors and individual personalities. Apart from the general black and white colored Koi fish, there are countless other shades and combinations of colors such as green, blue, red, yellow, orange and silver. The established Koi environment provided for them is a major issue of maintaining the color of these fish.

Koi have quite extraordinary social actions. Their behavior needs to be taken into account when they are put in the same pond that includes other fish. In general they are considered to be social fish and they co-exist with other fish quite naturally. But when fish of a very small size are swimming around them they might end-up to be lunch. This shows that Koi carp fish are opportunistic when it comes to food. Things like that need to be considered when one puts other fish together with Koi. One of the basic steps for proper care is the size of the pond. Koi fish act differently in small and large ponds.

The size of the pond is rather the most significant part of taking care of Koi. The pond must have the capacity of at least five hundred gallons because these fish have a tendency to grow large depending on diet and pond size. If your pond appears to be too small for your Koi carp fish, then you might have to consider trading them out and replacing them with smaller fish. If you end up giving your fish to somebody else because they outgrew your pond, you should make sure that the other person is just as educated and passionate about keeping and maintaining these magnificent creatures. Those who keep Koi should know how to take care of them properly and should be ready to do so diligently. Keeping Koi can be a very satisfying experience if you follow the guidlines closely. To keep these fishes healthy, they need to be carefully maintained. The temperature of the water, the quality of the water, and the size of the pond are essential to keep Koi carp fish healthy. In their natural habitat they are used to cold water. It pays to do it right, right from the start. It can be very expensive if you did not keep them properly and you need to replace them.

Koi fish love cold water and hence during the winter, they can stay in an outdoor pond. But the outdoor pond must be more than three feet deep. During the winters, Koi experience difficulties in digesting their food. This is the time when you should be careful with the process of providing food to them. As they cannot digest food properly during this period, continuous supply of food can damage their stomachs. During winter, take special care for feeding your Koi carp fish. If you are not sure about the exact type or quantity of food, consult an expert but do not experiment.

You will love the presence of Koi in your outside pond. A little but consistent care of these fish can provide you a vibrant feeling. Taking proper care of your Koi fish is truly a satisfactory experience.








Jessica Arons specializes in Koi fish care and is currently working with the Koi Fish School team. For more great tips on Koi Carp Fish visit The Koi Fish School today.