Koi fish are, without doubt, an example of some of the most colourful and stunningly beautiful pond fish but in order to keep them you will need to have a basic knowledge of fish and how they should be kept in outdoor ponds along with a few other essential supplies.
If you want your yard to have a tranquil feeling then placing a fountain in your pond will do just that. As well as drowning out undesirable noise, the fountain works to stir the water and is the most straightforward way of putting the necessary oxygen back into the water which is of the utmost importance as far as the health of your fish is concerned.
A filter will have to be installed in your pond as this is how the quality of the water is maintained. It removes all manner of pollutants and this in itself, reduces the chances of the Koi fish having health problems. The filtration system works when the water is moving and even though a fountain continually agitates the water, you will still need to install a pump into your pond as the fountain on its own will not be sufficient to filter the pond successfully.
There are a few supplies you will need from time to time so it’s best to keep them to hand. For example, a dechlorinator should be used when you replenish the water level of your pond with tap water. This product does the essential job of getting rid of any harmful chemicals present in tap water. It is also advisable to check the pH and nitrate levels of the water each week. This can be done by the use of a testing kit purchased from your local pet store. Baking soda or pond salt can be added to the water in your pond in order to regulate the pH and nitrate levels should the test prove that they are not as they should be.
The fact that Koi come in brilliant colors, it goes without saying that they may become victims of outdoor predators such as foxes, cats, badgers, racoons, kingfishers and herons. The good news is that owners can design their ponds in a way that ensures the fish are kept safe. By keeping the water deep enough and creating sufficiently high overhangs at the sides of the pond the predators can be kept at bay. Another good idea is to locate the pond under a tree as this will act as a block of vision from the sky. If necessary, you could cover the whole pond with a netting to make sure your fish are free from harm. This will also stop leaves falling from the trees and making the pond look untidy.
Of course, food for your fish is an important feature of your supplies so it’s a good idea to keep some basic foodstuffs in stock. Koi fish eat many foods and will even eat snacks offered direct from your hand if you want to give them a special treat.
Although when you are considering what you need as far as supplies go it may seem that a lot is required on your part, it has to be said that the pleasure you will get keeping the gorgeously mesmerizing Koi fish will make the effort well worthwhile.
Return to Top page Koi Supplies
