Category: Koi fish

Keeping Koi Fish 101

Keeping Koi Fish 101

Here’s a complete “Koi Fish 101” beginner’s guide — covering everything you need to know to start keeping koi successfully, whether for a backyard pond or a large water garden:

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🐟 What Are Koi Fish?

Koi are ornamental carp (Cyprinus carpio), bred for color and beauty. They’re hardy, intelligent, and can live 20–40 years — even longer with ideal care.

🏡 Ideal Habitat: The Koi Pond

✅ Minimum Pond Size

  • 1,000+ gallons (larger is better)

  • At least 3 feet deep to protect from predators and temperature swings

📏 Space Rule of Thumb

  • Allow 250 gallons per adult koi

  • Don’t overstock — fewer fish = healthier pond

🌀 Filtration and Aeration

  • Strong biofilter to handle waste (koi produce a lot!)

  • UV clarifier to prevent green water (algae)

  • Aerator or waterfall for oxygen, especially in warm weather

🌡️ Water Quality & Parameters

Parameter Ideal Range
Temp 59–77°F (15–25°C)
pH 7.0–8.5
Ammonia/Nitrite 0 ppm
Nitrate < 40 ppm
Oxygen High

  • Test water weekly with a quality test kit

  • Perform 10–25% water changes weekly to reduce waste buildup

🍽️ Feeding Koi

  • Feed 1–2 times/day (only what they eat in 5 minutes)

  • Use high-quality floating koi pellets

  • Supplement with treats: peas, lettuce, watermelon, oranges, shrimp

Note: In temps below 50°F (10°C), koi metabolism slows — stop feeding in winter unless using cold-water food.

🧊 Winter Care (for Cold Climates)

  • Koi can survive under ice if the pond is deep enough

  • Use a pond heater or de-icer to keep a breathing hole open

  • Don’t disturb hibernating fish too much — they’re delicate in cold temps

🛡️ Common Problems

  • Algae blooms – often caused by too much sun or overfeeding

  • Ammonia spikes – usually from overstocking or poor filtration

  • Parasites or ulcers – check for flashing, spots, or sluggish behavior

  • Predators – raccoons, herons, and cats love koi! Use pond netting or decoys.

❤️ Fun Facts

  • Koi recognize their owners and can be trained to eat from your hand

  • Colors include red, orange, yellow, white, black, blue, and cream

  • Varieties include Kohaku, Showa, Sanke, Ogon, and Butterfly Koi (long-finned)

📦 Koi Starter Checklist

  • ✅ 1,000+ gallon pond (3′ deep)

  • ✅ High-quality pond filter

  • ✅ Aeration (air pump or waterfall)

  • ✅ Water test kit

  • ✅ Koi-safe dechlorinator

  • ✅ Floating koi food

  • ✅ Net and quarantine tank (for new or sick fish)

  • ✅ Pond netting (predator protection)

🐠 Pro Tip:

Start with 2–3 koi, not 10 — they grow fast and need space. Also, quarantine new fish for 2–3 weeks before adding to your main pond to prevent disease.

Seasonal Koi Care Calendar

Here’s a Seasonal Koi Care Calendar tailored for Zone 9b / Arizona climates like Phoenix — where summers are extremely hot and winters are mild but can still stress pond ecosystems.

🌸 SPRING (March–May)

Koi wake up from winter dormancy — time to prepare for active growth.

🧼 Tasks:

  • Inspect and clean the pond, filters, and pumps

  • Perform large partial water change (25–50%)

  • Begin feeding easily digestible food (wheat germ or spring blend) once water is consistently above 50°F

  • Test water weekly (especially ammonia and nitrite)

  • Remove sludge and debris

🌱 Tips:

  • Start beneficial bacteria treatments

  • Quarantine and observe new fish before adding

☀️ SUMMER (June–August)

Koi are at their most active — but Arizona’s heat creates challenges.

🧊 Critical Concerns:

  • High temperatures (85°F+) can stress koi

  • Oxygen levels drop as water warms

✅ Tasks:

  • Feed 2–3 times daily, using high-protein growth food

  • Add shade (floating plants, shade cloth, pergola)

  • Use aerators or waterfalls to boost oxygen

  • Check for signs of sunburn or ulcers

  • Monitor ammonia, pH swings, and oxygen levels

  • Top off evaporated water with dechlorinated water

🔥 Pro Tip:

  • Keep the pond at least 50% shaded in July/August

🍂 FALL (September–November)

Koi begin slowing down as temperatures drop.

🍁 Tasks:

  • Gradually switch to wheat germ-based food

  • Cut back feeding as water approaches 60°F

  • Remove fallen leaves and decaying plant matter

  • Prune aquatic plants

  • Net the pond to prevent leaf buildup

  • Do a partial water change before winter

🔎 Watch For:

  • Early signs of parasites or ulcers (cooling water stresses koi)

  • Prepare your winter aeration or de-icer system

❄️ WINTER (December–February)

In Arizona, koi don’t hibernate fully — but they enter a semi-dormant state.

❄️ Key Conditions:

  • Stop feeding below 50°F

  • Koi metabolism is slow — too much food = risk of rot/death

✅ Tasks:

  • Monitor temperature and oxygen

  • Keep pumps and aeration running (but reduce surface disturbance if water is below 50°F)

  • Maintain a clean, stable environment

  • Watch for predator activity (they get bolder when food is scarce)

🧊 Note:

You likely don’t need a pond heater in Phoenix, but have one ready for cold snaps

📆 Summary Cheat Sheet:

Season Feeding Water Temp Focus Maintenance Focus
Spring Resume (wheat germ) Rising (50–70°F) Clean pond, restart filters
Summer Full feeding High (75–90°F+) Shade, aeration, frequent testing
Fall Reduce gradually Falling (60–50°F) Net leaves, switch to cool food
Winter Stop below 50°F Cool (40–60°F) Monitor only, no feeding

Koi Fish For Sale In Arizona

Phoenix’s best choice in Koi fish is located conveniently in Peoria Arizona. The Backyard Pond has everything you need to start, maintain, and upgrade your backyard ponds. From the liner and aquatic plants to the Koi fish themselves we can help you get your dream Koi pond started. Stop by our store or give us a call to get your questions answered.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Koi Fish Costs 2025

Here’s an up-to-date overview of Koi fish costs in 2025, including factors that affect prices and what to expect when buying:

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🐟 Typical Koi Fish Price Ranges in 2025

Size / Type Price Range (USD) Notes
Small juvenile (4-6 inches) $20 – $100 Good for beginners or pond stocking
Medium (8-12 inches) $100 – $500 Healthier, better coloration
Large (12-18 inches) $500 – $1,500+ Highly sought-after patterns and colors
Show-quality / High-end koi $1,500 – $10,000+ Rare varieties, perfect markings
Giant koi (18+ inches) $2,000 – $25,000+ Exceptional size, pedigree, and color

💸 Factors Affecting Koi Prices

  • Breed and variety: Popular types like Kohaku, Taisho Sanke, and Showa command higher prices.

  • Color and pattern quality: Crisp, vibrant colors and balanced patterns are more valuable.

  • Size and age: Larger, older koi typically cost more, but some young show-quality koi are pricey.

  • Lineage and breeder reputation: Koi from renowned breeders or bloodlines have premium prices.

  • Health and condition: Healthy fish free from diseases or deformities are worth more.

  • Location and source: Imported koi (e.g., from Japan) tend to be more expensive than locally bred ones.

🏪 Where to Buy Koi in 2025

  • Specialty koi farms and breeders: Best for quality and pedigree but can be pricey.

  • Aquarium and pond supply stores: Convenient but prices vary; quality may differ.

  • Online koi marketplaces: Larger selection but be cautious about shipping stress.

  • Local koi shows and auctions: Opportunities to see fish in person and bid.

💡 Buying Tips for 2025

  • Buy healthy fish: Check for clear eyes, smooth scales, and active swimming.

  • Ask about water conditions: Koi adapt better if local water is similar to their origin.

  • Consider pond size: Koi grow large; make sure your pond can support them.

  • Factor in maintenance costs: Food, filtration, and potential veterinary care add to expenses.

  • Beware of very cheap koi: May be sick or low quality.

Phoenix Area Pond Supply

If you are looking for live fish, live plants, pond filtration, pumps, or anything else you need to start or care for your water garden or garden pond The Backyard Pond has everything you need. We serve residents of the greater Phoenix area with the best selection of Koi, plants, and all the supplies you need. Stop by or give us a call at 623-878-6695 with your questions.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Do Koi Fish Fight Each Other?

How Long Do Koi Fish Fight Each Other?

Koi fish generally aren’t aggressive towards each other. They’re usually quite peaceful and social, often thriving in groups. However, if their environment becomes too crowded or if there isn’t enough food, they might exhibit some minor squabbling. It’s also possible for dominant fish to assert themselves over others, but this is usually more about establishing pecking order than actual fighting. Ensuring that they have ample space and resources can help keep the peace among them.

623-878-6695
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What Are The Signs of a Healthy Koi Fish?

Healthy koi fish typically exhibit the following signs:

  1. Bright, Vibrant Colors: Their colors should be clear and vivid. Dull or faded colors can indicate health issues.
  2. Clear Eyes: Their eyes should be bright and clear, not cloudy or sunken.
  3. Smooth Scales: Scales should be smooth and properly aligned, without any peeling or unusual bumps.
  4. Active Behavior: Healthy koi are active and swim around with energy. They shouldn’t be lethargic or hide excessively.
  5. Healthy Gills: Gills should be red and not have any signs of inflammation or excessive mucus. They should move rhythmically when the fish is swimming.
  6. Normal Appetite: A healthy koi has a good appetite and eats regularly. Sudden changes in feeding habits can be a sign of problems.
  7. Clean Skin: Their skin should be free from sores, lesions, or parasites. Any irregularities might indicate infections or diseases.
  8. Balanced Fins: Fins should be spread out and not clumped or ragged. They should move freely and symmetrically.

Regular monitoring and proper pond maintenance are key to keeping koi healthy.

What Are The Signs of an Unhealthy Koi Fish

Unhealthy koi fish may show a variety of signs, including:

  1. Faded Colors: Loss of vibrancy or dull colors can indicate stress or illness.
  2. Cloudy or Sunken Eyes: This can be a sign of illness, poor water quality, or parasites.
  3. Damaged or Peeling Scales: This may indicate infections, parasites, or poor water conditions.
  4. Lethargy: If the koi is swimming less or hiding frequently, it could be a sign of illness or stress.
  5. Abnormal Gills: Gills that are discolored, swollen, or covered in excessive mucus can indicate respiratory issues or infections.
  6. Loss of Appetite: A sudden decrease in appetite or refusal to eat can be a sign of health problems.
  7. Sores or Lesions: Any unusual growths, sores, or lesions on the skin can indicate infections or parasites.
  8. Abnormal Fin Behavior: Clamped fins, ragged edges, or unusual movement can be signs of stress or disease.
  9. Strange Swimming Patterns: Erratic swimming, such as spinning or rubbing against objects, can indicate health issues or parasites.
  10. Excessive Gasping at the Surface: This might suggest poor oxygen levels or gill problems.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address the issue promptly by checking water quality, observing the fish closely, and potentially consulting a vet who specializes in aquatic animals.

Koi Fish For Sale In Arizona

Phoenix’s best choice in Koi fish is located conveniently in Peoria Arizona. The Backyard Pond has everything you need to start, maintain, and upgrade your backyard ponds. From the liner and aquatic plants to the Koi fish themselves we can help you get your dream Koi pond started. Stop by our store or give us a call to get your questions answered.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

How Big Do Koi Fish Get?

Koi fish are one of the world’s largest species that are often kept in ponds. The average size for koi is nearly 2.5 inches in length and a weight of 1.5 ounces. Let’s take a look at how big these fish can get depending on size and overall conditions.

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Standard Koi Fish Sizes

Koi fish are typically categorized by their size. Domesticated fish do tend to be smaller, but some homeowners choose to keep larger fish.

The majority of these fish will grow to around 12-15 inches long. Due to their relatively small size, they are best suited for indoor aquariums. They often look beautiful when complimented nicely in a home aquarium. They also do not feed a lot so they are very easy to maintain.

Japanese koi are larger than most other types. Japanese koi can grow up to 26 inches in length, meaning they will not fit in an averaged size home aquarium. This type of fish is usually found in outdoor ponds where they can swim freely.

Jumbo koi are the largest type, growing up to 36 inches long. They need to swim in sizable outdoor ponds for survival. The largest Jumbo koi ever recorded weighed in at a whopping 91 pounds.

Koi Fish Growth Rates

Generally, a koi fish will take nearly 3 years to reach its maximum length. However, there are some smaller koi types that can reach full size in 2 years or less.

Most koi fish will reach about 8 inches in length after their first year, and the rest of their growth will depend on the type of koi, as well as a few other factors outlined below.

Factors That Impact How Big Koi Fish Will Be

The likelihood that your koi fish reach their maximum size is quite unlikely. Here are a few factors below that will impact their overall size.

Nutrition And Genetics

Fish food that is full of vitamins and proteins will help maximize growth. Some food brands are also designed to enhance the color of the fish. Genetics will determine how large they grow.

When good genes are combined with high-quality water and food, the fish will have the best chance to grow to their maximum size.

Water Quality And Temperature

75 degrees Fahrenheit is the best temperature to promote koi fish growth. Lower temperatures often result in slower rates of metabolism and growth.

Water that is cleaned regularly will promote healthier koi. Meanwhile, water that is cloudy or dirty can ultimately stunt their growth.

Phoenix Area Pond Supply

If you are looking for live fish, live plants, pond filtration, pumps, or anything else you need to start or care for your water garden or garden pond The Backyard Pond has everything you need. We serve residents of the greater Phoenix area with the best selection of Koi, plants, and all the supplies you need. Stop by or give us a call at 623-878-6695 with your questions.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Do Koi Fish Fight Each Other?

How Long Do Koi Fish Fight Each Other?

Koi fish generally aren’t aggressive towards each other. They’re usually quite peaceful and social, often thriving in groups. However, if their environment becomes too crowded or if there isn’t enough food, they might exhibit some minor squabbling. It’s also possible for dominant fish to assert themselves over others, but this is usually more about establishing pecking order than actual fighting. Ensuring that they have ample space and resources can help keep the peace among them.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

What Are The Signs of a Healthy Koi Fish?

Healthy koi fish typically exhibit the following signs:

  1. Bright, Vibrant Colors: Their colors should be clear and vivid. Dull or faded colors can indicate health issues.
  2. Clear Eyes: Their eyes should be bright and clear, not cloudy or sunken.
  3. Smooth Scales: Scales should be smooth and properly aligned, without any peeling or unusual bumps.
  4. Active Behavior: Healthy koi are active and swim around with energy. They shouldn’t be lethargic or hide excessively.
  5. Healthy Gills: Gills should be red and not have any signs of inflammation or excessive mucus. They should move rhythmically when the fish is swimming.
  6. Normal Appetite: A healthy koi has a good appetite and eats regularly. Sudden changes in feeding habits can be a sign of problems.
  7. Clean Skin: Their skin should be free from sores, lesions, or parasites. Any irregularities might indicate infections or diseases.
  8. Balanced Fins: Fins should be spread out and not clumped or ragged. They should move freely and symmetrically.

Regular monitoring and proper pond maintenance are key to keeping koi healthy.

What Are The Signs of an Unhealthy Koi Fish

Unhealthy koi fish may show a variety of signs, including:

  1. Faded Colors: Loss of vibrancy or dull colors can indicate stress or illness.
  2. Cloudy or Sunken Eyes: This can be a sign of illness, poor water quality, or parasites.
  3. Damaged or Peeling Scales: This may indicate infections, parasites, or poor water conditions.
  4. Lethargy: If the koi is swimming less or hiding frequently, it could be a sign of illness or stress.
  5. Abnormal Gills: Gills that are discolored, swollen, or covered in excessive mucus can indicate respiratory issues or infections.
  6. Loss of Appetite: A sudden decrease in appetite or refusal to eat can be a sign of health problems.
  7. Sores or Lesions: Any unusual growths, sores, or lesions on the skin can indicate infections or parasites.
  8. Abnormal Fin Behavior: Clamped fins, ragged edges, or unusual movement can be signs of stress or disease.
  9. Strange Swimming Patterns: Erratic swimming, such as spinning or rubbing against objects, can indicate health issues or parasites.
  10. Excessive Gasping at the Surface: This might suggest poor oxygen levels or gill problems.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address the issue promptly by checking water quality, observing the fish closely, and potentially consulting a vet who specializes in aquatic animals.

Koi Fish For Sale In Arizona

Phoenix’s best choice in Koi fish is located conveniently in Peoria Arizona. The Backyard Pond has everything you need to start, maintain, and upgrade your backyard ponds. From the liner and aquatic plants to the Koi fish themselves we can help you get your dream Koi pond started. Stop by our store or give us a call to get your questions answered.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Koi Fish Cost (Updated For 2024)

Koi fish costs will vary based on location, size and color patterns, among other factors. These fish can cost anywhere from $8-$200,000 each, according to PremierPond.

623-878-6695
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How Mush Do Koi Fish Cost?

Here is a look at some average koi fish costs:

  • Assorted Grade-A koi: $8-$20.
  • Grade-A domestic koi: $10-$17.
  • Large Butterfly koi: $30-$660.
  • Large to extra-large koi with rare color patterns: $100-$2,500.

Rare breeds from Japan have been purchased for nearly $200,000.

What Affects The Cost Of Koi Fish?

There are six important factors that could play a role in the overall cost of koi fish. Let’s take a look at these factors below!

1. Color And Pattern

It goes without saying the better the koi fish looks, the more expensive it will be. Individuals have been breeding koi fish for centuries, which has resulted in many different colors and patterns. The bright red-orange, dark black and shinning white combination tends to be the most popular.

Koi that are yellow, gray or white are also sought-after by home and business owners. In Japan, citizens want koi that look like the Japanese flag, identified by a large red dot on their head.

2. Size

Koi fish will undoubtedly cost more when they are larger. Here is a look at some average koi fish sizes:

  • Domestic koi: 12-15 inches in length.
  • Japanese koi: 22-26 inches in length.
  • Jumbo koi: 34-36 inches in length.

3. Age

It is easy to tell the quality of koi fish as it ages. When you purchase younger koi fish you won’t be able to tell how large they’ll get, meaning it’s hard to identify their quality.

Of course, you won’t be able to enjoy your koi for as long if you purchase older ones. These fish can live for decades depending on type and how they are cared for.

4. Sex

Females will come with a higher price tag when it comes to the highly-valued Japanese koi. The females tend to be longer with rounder fins, plus they can be used for breeding. Domestic koi will usually be cheaper.

5. Genetic Lineage

You will find that some koi can trace their ancestry back for generations. This ultimately affects the price since it’s like purchasing a purebred dog versus a mutt. Gosanke is the most valuable koi available today.

You will be able to find cheaper domestic koi at local pet shops or online. Oftentimes, domestic koi will live a better life in your backyard pond.

6. Body Shape

U.S. and Japanese koi farmers have different preferences on body shape and fin-type. Short and neat fins are more popular in Japan, for instance.

In The U.S., koi with long fins are called Butterfly koi due to the way they look. Needless to say, prices will vary based on your location and the appearance of the koi.

Phoenix Area Pond Supply

If you are looking for live fish, live plants, pond filtration, pumps, or anything else you need to start or care for your water garden or garden pond The Backyard Pond has everything you need. We serve residents of the greater Phoenix area with the best selection of Koi, plants, and all the supplies you need. Stop by or give us a call at 623-878-6695 with your questions.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

How Long Do Koi Fish Live?

Koi Fish Lifespan

Koi fish have amazingly diverse patterns and colors and they have a very long lifespan ranging from 20 to over 200 years old but averaging around fifty years You can count the rings on their scales to determine their age! Read on to learn more.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Koi fish have not always decorated ponds; they were originally bred for food in Japan. A few of these colorful koi impressed their breeders so much they became highly regarded. This began their journey into ponds around the world.

Seeing large brilliantly colored koi fish inspired me to look into keeping them myself. Before I purchased a koi fish, life expectancy was a serious consideration, and it should be yours as well. Their life span determines the ownership commitment, which is crucial to ensuring that you will be able to give your koi a lifelong home.

Factors Impacting Lifespan

  •  Genetics
  •  Nutrition
  •  Water Quality and Environment
  •  Wintering
  • Genetics

Nutrition

Koi need a healthy diet to live a long life. But what is the best food for koi fish? Always read the label of any food you consider purchasing, and look for the following ingredients:

  •    Protein. The first ingredient should be either fish meal or soy.
  •    Fats. Young koi need 10% fats and adults need 3% fats in their diet.
  •    Carbohydrates. Look for rose hips, soybeans, corn, or wheat in the first 5 ingredients.
  •   Vitamins and minerals. Koi need calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Outdoor Pond Tips

Most people keep koi in outdoor ponds due to their size. When designing their pond, consider the following:

  •   Bigger is better. Your koi fish will grow quickly; make sure they have room to grow.
  •   Sunlight. While ponds need some sunlight, too much sunlight will cause koi to overheat and encourages algae growth.
  •   Depth. Koi ponds should be at least 5 feet deep. Be sure to check where power lines are buried on your property before digging.
  •   Predators. Outdoor ponds must be protected against predators who like to eat fish.

Source: https://thewittyfish.com/how-long-do-koi-fish-live/

 

Koi Fish For Sale In Arizona

Phoenix’s best choice in Koi fish is located conveniently in Peoria Arizona. The Backyard Pond has everything you need to start, maintain, and upgrade your backyard ponds. From the liner and aquatic plants to the Koi fish themselves we can help you get your dream Koi pond started. Stop by our store or give us a call to get your questions answered.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

How Much Do Koi Fish Cost?

Koi fish costs will vary based on location, size and color patterns, among other factors. These fish can cost anywhere from $8-$200,000 each, according to PremierPond.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Koi Fish Cost

Here is a look at some average koi fish costs:

  • Assorted Grade-A koi: $8-$20.
  • Grade-A domestic koi: $10-$17.
  • Large Butterfly koi: $30-$660.
  • Large to extra-large koi with rare color patterns: $100-$2,500.

Rare breeds from Japan have been purchased for nearly $200,000.

What Affects The Cost Of Koi Fish?

There are six important factors that could play a role in the overall cost of koi fish. Let’s take a look at these factors below!

1. Color And Pattern

It goes without saying the better the koi fish looks, the more expensive it will be. Individuals have been breeding koi fish for centuries, which has resulted in many different colors and patterns. The bright red-orange, dark black and shinning white combination tends to be the most popular.

Koi that are yellow, gray or white are also sought-after by home and business owners. In Japan, citizens want koi that look like the Japanese flag, identified by a large red dot on their head.

2. Size

Koi fish will undoubtedly cost more when they are larger. Here is a look at some average koi fish sizes:

  • Domestic koi: 12-15 inches in length.
  • Japanese koi: 22-26 inches in length.
  • Jumbo koi: 34-36 inches in length.

3. Age

It is easy to tell the quality of koi fish as it ages. When you purchase younger koi fish you won’t be able to tell how large they’ll get, meaning it’s hard to identify their quality.

Of course, you won’t be able to enjoy your koi for as long if you purchase older ones. These fish can live for decades depending on type and how they are cared for.

4. Sex

Females will come with a higher price tag when it comes to the highly-valued Japanese koi. The females tend to be longer with rounder fins, plus they can be used for breeding. Domestic koi will usually be cheaper.

5. Genetic Lineage

You will find that some koi can trace their ancestry back for generations. This ultimately affects the price since it’s like purchasing a purebred dog versus a mutt. Gosanke is the most valuable koi available today.

You will be able to find cheaper domestic koi at local pet shops or online. Oftentimes, domestic koi will live a better life in your backyard pond.

6. Body Shape

U.S. and Japanese koi farmers have different preferences on body shape and fin-type. Short and neat fins are more popular in Japan, for instance.

In The U.S., koi with long fins are called Butterfly koi due to the way they look. Needless to say, prices will vary based on your location and the appearance of the koi.

Phoenix Area Pond Supply

If you are looking for live fish, live plants, pond filtration, pumps, or anything else you need to start or care for your water garden or garden pond The Backyard Pond has everything you need. We serve residents of the greater Phoenix area with the best selection of Koi, plants, and all the supplies you need. Stop by or give us a call at 623-878-6695 with your questions.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Koi Fish Life Expectancy

Koi Fish Lifespan

Koi fish have amazingly diverse patterns and colors and they have a very long lifespan ranging from 20 to over 200 years old but averaging around fifty years You can count the rings on their scales to determine their age! Read on to learn more.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

Koi fish have not always decorated ponds; they were originally bred for food in Japan. A few of these colorful koi impressed their breeders so much they became highly regarded. This began their journey into ponds around the world.

Seeing large brilliantly colored koi fish inspired me to look into keeping them myself. Before I purchased a koi fish, life expectancy was a serious consideration, and it should be yours as well. Their life span determines the ownership commitment, which is crucial to ensuring that you will be able to give your koi a lifelong home.

Factors Impacting Lifespan

  •  Genetics
  •  Nutrition
  •  Water Quality and Environment
  •  Wintering
  • Genetics

Nutrition

Koi need a healthy diet to live a long life. But what is the best food for koi fish? Always read the label of any food you consider purchasing, and look for the following ingredients:

  •    Protein. The first ingredient should be either fish meal or soy.
  •    Fats. Young koi need 10% fats and adults need 3% fats in their diet.
  •    Carbohydrates. Look for rose hips, soybeans, corn, or wheat in the first 5 ingredients.
  •   Vitamins and minerals. Koi need calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Outdoor Pond Tips

Most people keep koi in outdoor ponds due to their size. When designing their pond, consider the following:

  •   Bigger is better. Your koi fish will grow quickly; make sure they have room to grow.
  •   Sunlight. While ponds need some sunlight, too much sunlight will cause koi to overheat and encourages algae growth.
  •   Depth. Koi ponds should be at least 5 feet deep. Be sure to check where power lines are buried on your property before digging.
  •   Predators. Outdoor ponds must be protected against predators who like to eat fish.

Source: https://thewittyfish.com/how-long-do-koi-fish-live/

 

Koi Fish For Sale In Arizona

Phoenix’s best choice in Koi fish is located conveniently in Peoria Arizona. The Backyard Pond has everything you need to start, maintain, and upgrade your backyard ponds. From the liner and aquatic plants to the Koi fish themselves we can help you get your dream Koi pond started. Stop by our store or give us a call to get your questions answered.

623-878-6695
Get a Quote

What Is Koi

What Is Koi Phoenix AZ

Are you a koi fish enthusiast, fan or keeper? It won’t matter if you’re just starting with koi or a seasoned breeder, they always have something else to learn. Below are some interesting facts about koi, such as female koi’s are not only rounder, but larger than male koi fish.

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Heritage of Koi

It is thought that the koi fish originated within China, later being used by Japanese as a food source, which started to breed koi during the 1800’s for aesthetic appeal. Koi in their many beautiful varieties that we see today, are descendants of a black fish known as Magoi, better known as the common carp. They date back almost twenty five hundred years originating from Eastern Asia – in the Azov, Caspian, Aral and Black Seas – and from parts of China. Contrary to common belief Koi did not originate in Japan. Koi were brought to Japan with the invading Chinese approximately 200 BC.

Popularity Contest

The most popular koi fish in Japan is the Kohaku, which is a white and red koi, also known best as the koi you start with and the koi you end with. It is also the most popular in the U. S., as well as the Showa Sanke, and Taisho Sanke. Ogan Koi is more prominent even in inadequately filtered ponds because of their single color can be seen even in cloudy water.

Smarty Fish

When it comes to intelligence, the koi are rather smart. Similar to cats and dogs, a koi fish can be trained to eat from your hand, or some train koi to eat from their mouths. As koi are omnivores, they are known for eating pond plants. Some species of koi are also known to recognize their owners’ faces.

Body Works

A Koi fish is able to grow to great lengths, up to 3 feet in ideal living conditions, such as a pond. However, if a pond is not deep enough, they can get sunburnt, and they need plenty of shade. Females are bigger than males, and koi do not have teeth. Ogon Koi is also the most favored by breeders because it is known to have a longer lifespan than multicolored Koi.

The Great Mate

In the process of mating, it is common for koi to eat their recently hatched young, known as koi fry. It is important to separate the koi fish from the koi fry during mating season to ensure the fry is preserved. If breeders are raising koi that are highly sought, it can bring thousands of dollars per koi. For a prized koi, $250,000 is not unheard of. Koi, like many other types of fish, koi breed by spawning.

The Great, Great, Great Grandpa Koi

Most popular in Japan, the Kohaku is a variety of white koi with red patches.

The oldest known koi recorded was a legendary koi by the name of Hanako, which was hatched in 1751 and passed away in 1977, making it 226 years old. That means this koi survived through Industrial America, French Revolution, the United States formation, inventions of the automobile and electricity industries, World War I, World War II, and well into the Vietnam War. However, the average lifespan of koi is 30 to 40 years.

Showing Age

Although Hanako survived 226 years, the age of the koi could not be detected by the naked eye. The scales of a koi fish are covered by microscopic growth marks, similar to the rings on a tree. These marks indicate patterns of food shortage or rapid growth. Environmental factors also have a hand in how long your koi will live. In established koi ponds the quality of care is also a factor. The breed type may also determine lifespan.

Representations

Various virtues are symbolized by koi fish within Asian cultures. Koi are recognized as being symbols of endurance, perseverance, individualism and strength. In many cultures, tattoos representing koi are not uncommon, representing the overcoming of adversity. Koi are also associated with wealth and success. In Japan festivals are held for their positive qualities with family strength and development.

Rainbow of Ideals

As koi are able to develop a wide range of colors, there are no surprises that every hue developed connotation. Metallic koi symbolize business success. Gold koi represent prosperity and wealth. Blue koi represents serenity, while Asagi koi of red, blue and grey color represent positivity. Black koi are considered to have patriarchal symbolism, with blue belonging to the son, red to the mother, and pink to the daughter.

Do you know any interesting facts about koi fish you would like to share? Leave a comment or send us message using the contact form!

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