Koi, Anyone? 

  What is a Koi?  Here is a brief definition: a Koi is an ornamental Japanese carp with unique color markings, scale patterns and fin lengths. Koi are considered some of the more beautiful fish around.  They are a little more difficult to raise than goldfish, but not as hard as many people imagine.

Some statements made about Koi raising make people hesitant about raising these beautiful fish.  The fact of the matter is, you don't have to have a doctorate in Koi or even a lot of knowledge about them to keep them happy.  What you really need is just a little conventional wisdom and some common sense. 

Don't believe some of the things people say about Koi raising like:

• The hobby is terribly complicated

• Koi owners need a degree in chemistry and Japanese to understand and participate.

• Between 20 & 30% of your water needs to be changed every week.

• Creating a balanced ecosystem is an impossibility.

Here's what we like to say about raising Koi:

• The fact is most Koi owners know very little about the chemical and physical properties of their fish!  And guess what...their fish are happy and thriving. 

• You don't need any degrees and you don't have to speak Japanese, just use common sense.

• Changing your water every week is crazy!  Who has the time for that these days.  A naturally balanced system is all it takes, and that really is easy to obtain.  Annual clean-ups are really all that is necessary if your pond is balanced.

• You can get a balanced ecosystem in your pond.  First and foremost, build your pond correctly from the start, and take advice from experts. A local garden center will be happy to give you some expert advice.

So, come on, build that water feature in your yard and enjoy the serenity of running water and beautiful Koi.