Everything you need to know about koi carp

Where do koi carp come from?

Koi carp are a bred variety of common carp and originally come from Japan, where they have been bred for centuries. Through selective breeding, different colours and patterns have developed. Today, koi carp are a popular choice as pond fish.

How old can a koi carp get?

Koi carp can live for a very long time, so it is important to carefully consider beforehand whether keeping koi carp suits you. On average, they live between 18 and 40 years, depending on their living conditions. Several factors such as water quality, nutrition and space have a strong influence on their lifespan.

How big does a koi carp grow?

Koi carp grow according to the space available to them. In a large pond, koi carp can reach a length of 60 to 80 centimetres. In smaller ponds they often remain slightly smaller.

How much does a koi carp cost?

The price of a koi carp depends on several factors. Young or smaller koi are generally more affordable, while large or special koi can be much more expensive. The price depends on the size, colour and quality of the breeding. A smaller koi without special colours or patterns is usually available from around £13. Large koi with special colours and patterns can sometimes cost several thousand pounds.

What do you need to keep koi carp?

Koi carp need good living conditions to stay healthy. It is therefore important to prepare well before you start keeping koi carp.

The right pond

Koi carp are usually kept in an outdoor pond. The pond must offer enough space for swimming and growth. The deepest point of the pond should be at least 1.5 metres deep. The water temperature must be between 4 and 31 degrees Celsius for them to survive. The ideal temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. When it freezes, it is important to keep an opening in the ice so that enough oxygen remains in the water.

Good water quality

Good and stable water quality is extremely important for koi carp. The water must contain enough oxygen. A good filtration system ensures that the water stays clean and that waste substances are removed. Also check the water values regularly.

Feeding

Koi carp are omnivores and eat both plant and animal food. They are often fed with koi food that contains nutrients contributing to growth, colour and health. A distinction is also made between summer food and winter food. When it is cold, the digestion of koi carp slows down and it is better to give easily digestible food. Around 5 degrees Celsius it is best to stop feeding. Summer food is much richer than winter food. From 15 degrees Celsius you can start mixing summer food with winter food so the fish can gradually get used to it.