Gold fish are common pets found in many places. In fact, you might even remember getting a gold fish as a birthday present or winning it in some game as a prize. While it is a very popular domesticated fish you might be looking for something bigger and more captivating. Lo and behold, goldfish have a cousin- the Koi Carp which is well known for its grace and beauty.
Most people who have fish as pets use them as relaxants. Watching the fish swim around the tank or pond gives them peace and calms their mind. Unlike the usual cats and dogs where we can play with them and pet them, fish lovers are often restricted while interacting with their beautiful pets. What if, there is a fish out there that not only is a wonder to watch as it glides past you in all its glory, but can also be petted as forms a bond with you?
Look no further, for the Koi fish has been carefully bred through the ages to fulfill all those characteristics that you might crave for in your pet fish. Koi fish, originally from Japan, belongs to the Carp family. Just like Goldfish, Koi fish have been bred to fulfill the most sought after features that a fish lover would want it to possess; Beauty in abundance as they are found in a myriad of hues, grace which these fish are no strangers to as they dart back and forth in the pond nimbly and most importantly the Koi fish are sociable creatures, that can be trained by their owners to even feed from their own hands.
If you are going for Koi fish as your pets, you have to know more about them, so that you will know if you can spend the time, attention and money that they may require. Here is a little list that contains information that you must absolutely possess before you plunge into the pond and get yourself a Koi carp.
Size:
The size of the Koi carp does not depend on its tank size and Koi fish have an average size of 15-18 inches. If you have a larger pond size and your Koi fish is with you for quite some time, it can grow to even larger size and in fact amongst Koi lovers, larger the size the more prized the fish is. Since the Koi fish is larger than regular domestic fish, a small tank would not suffice. It is best if your Koi fish can live in a pond, akin to their natural habitat. Typically, a Koi fish would require approximately 500 gallons of swim area due its large size. If the pond is too small or overcrowded, your Koi fish will become stressed and fall ill.
Colours:
Koi fish can be found in wonderful hues. Bred specifically in order to produce offspring with unique and attractive colours, you will not be disappointed when you look at Koi fish. In fact choosing the colour might be quite a challenge and the colour varies depending on the breed of the fish. Whatever be the colour, the fish is definitely going to be dazzling. In fact, Koi fish prices vary depending on the colour and the size. Moreover, when you are evaluating your fish before you buy it, look at the fish from the top and not at the sides. Not only do the colours of the fish vary, but even their skin types are different from fully scaled to mirror scaled.
Behaviour:
With knowledge about its physical characteristics, it is time to learn about its social behaviour. As stated before, Koi fish are sociable creatures that do not shy away from human company once they are acquainted with their owners. Moreover, Koi fish can be grown alongside with other fish and are not aggressive in nature. One of the most alluring features of the Koi, and a trick you will look forward to mastering with your Koi fish is feeding it from your hand. You have probably watched Dolphins being fed from people’s hands on television. You can make feeding fish a reality when it comes to the Koi. Koi fish are quite intelligent fish and will recognize your presence after you spend some quality time with them. Sometimes, they might even leap over the water when you are around to get your attention! Look our for stressed behavior though – it is a sign that your fish might be sick and requires more attention.
Health:
Koi fish are quite hardy as they belong to the Carp family. They are nor prone to sickness unless their living environment does not foster them. Koi carps are large fish which require a lot of swimming area and they are produce a lot of waste. Ensure that you clean the pond regularly and remove excess refuse or other dirt that might have accumulated. If your Koi is swimming too close to the pond surface, it might be an indicator of lack of oxygen. Ensure that the water is filtered regularly and partially changed so that the water quality is maintained for your Koi. Observe your Koi fish and notice any abnormal behaviour, which may be an indicator of sickness.
These are the basics that you need to know about Koi fish, if you are consider getting them as your new pets. Remember that you will have to spend time, energy and money to ensure the well-being of your Koi, which will definitely be worthwhile!
Just imagine being surrounded by dazzling Koi fish as they slink back and forth playfully, as you are watching them.