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Koi fish
When it comes to garden ponds, koi are probably the most famous and popular fish to put in them. Koi fish have actually been bred for pond life, and this really makes them the best choice for the setting.
Koi fish may seem exotic, but they are really just a refined type of carp. Carp are a cold water fish that are very adaptable. With a little adjustment, they can live many places and be perfectly happy.
What most people love about them is their coloration. There is a wide variety that can be gotten, all of them very attractive. Black, white, red, yellow, orange, and cream are all very popular colors, but there are some others available.
You can often either order an assortment of koi from a breeder and see what you get, or handpick your koi. Some people enjoy getting a wide selection of colors and looks, and others like sticking to one or two colors or patterns.
There are a couple of variations of “koi” that many people do not consider to be pure varieties. This is because they are hybrids. This includes “ghost koi” also known as “ghost carp.” These fish have bright metallic scales and come in a variety of colors. “Butterfly koi” are also known as “Dragon carp” and are named because of their slender bodies and flowing fins.
Even though many koi enthusiasts refuse to acknowledge these variations, it should be noted that they are wonderful fish, and are actually hardier than “true” koi. If they are put in the same pond with koi, Ghosties and Butterfly carp will often outlive their cousins.
But any kind of koi or carp variations will be very durable creatures, and will live for a long time is cared for properly. One koi was reported to be approximately 220 years old when she died, but most generally live 30-40 years.
Since they are brightly colored fish, you will need to take some steps to protect them from predators. If you live in an area where there are birds such as herons, or other large fish-eating birds, you will want to give your pond some kind of cover. Some foliage over the pond such as a tree will prevent birds from seeing the fish. To protect your koi fish from animals like cats and raccoons, a net stretched across the top of the pond will work. There are special nets on the market for this purpose.
Having koi fish can be very rewarding. You can get a lot of enjoyment and relaxation from watching your koi swim. By adding them to your garden pond, you make it an even nicer place to be.
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