Raising butterfly koi is a rewarding activity, but one that requires a certain amount of expertise and attention. As a pet shop floor manager, I'm going to share with you my tips and advice for successfully breeding and maintaining these magnificent fish in your pond.
What is it? Characteristics of the butterfly koi carp
The butterfly koi carp, also known as Cyprinus carpio, is a variety of ornamental carp appreciated for its robustness and vibrant colours. As a pond fish, it has some unique characteristics that are worth exploring further.
Morphology and size of butterfly koi carp
Butterfly Koi have an average length of 50 cm, but can grow up to 120 cm in ideal living conditions. Their ovoid shape contributes to their elegant appearance, while their pairs of barbels help them to search the bottom of the pond for food.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Medium size | 50 cm |
| Maximum size | 120 cm |
| Shape | Oval |
Varieties and colours of butterfly koi carp
There are different varieties of Koi carp, each with its own colour combinations. Among the most popular are :
- Beni Ginga : a flamboyant red variety.
- Beni Kikokuryu : known for its shiny fins.
- Goromo : which has a blue colour with a tinge of red on the scales.
Reproduction of butterfly koi
Butterfly koi are oviparous fish. They lay their eggs in open water, usually in late spring or early summer. To maximise the chances of reproduction, it is important to install aquatic and marsh plants in your pond.
What is its habitat? maintenance of butterfly koi carp in a pond
Keeping butterfly koi in a pond requires a specific set-up to ensure their well-being. Based on my experience in pet shops, here are my recommendations for creating a suitable environment.
Size and layout of the pool
A pond of at least 5,000 litres is recommended for these large carp. Here are a few things to bear in mind:
- Minimum volume : 6000 litres for large pools
- Water temperature : between 10 and 25 °C
- Water pH : between 7.2 and 8
- Filtration : effective filtration to prevent water pollution
It is also advisable to use limestone to stabilise the basic pH of the water.
Compatibility and cohabitation
Koi butterfly carp can live alongside other cyprinids such as roach and bream. They are peaceful and like to live in groups. It is therefore advisable to keep several of them together for their well-being.
Plants and pond decorations
To encourage reproduction and create an attractive environment, install marsh and aquatic plants. This will also help control water quality and provide natural hiding places for your fish population.
Feeding and care of butterfly koi carp
Butterfly koi carp have a omnivorous diet. They spend a lot of time feeding at the bottom of the pond. Here are a few tips on feeding and caring for them.
Diet
Butterfly koi feed on a variety of foods, including :
- Granules for koi carp : available in pet shops
- Bloodworms : a source of protein
- Vegetables : like peas and courgettes
Make sure you vary their diet to ensure healthy growth and good colour development.
Regular care
Keeping butterfly koi healthy requires regular maintenance. Here are a few recommendations:
- Monitor water quality by regularly testing pH, temperature and hardness.
- Clean the pond filters to prevent debris build-up and keep the water clean.
- Remember to isolate new arrivals in quarantine to prevent the introduction of disease.
Where does it come from? Origins and natural habitat of the butterfly koi carp
Butterfly koi carp are native to lentic areas such as lakes, ponds and puddles. Their natural environment provides valuable clues for recreating optimum conditions in your pond.
Natural conditions
Koi carp prefer water temperatures of between 10 and 25°C, with a slightly basic pH (7.5 - 8) and a hardness (GH) of between 3 and 15. Reproducing these conditions in your pond is essential for their well-being.
Importance of plants in the natural habitat
In the wild, Koi carp benefit from an environment rich in aquatic plants. These not only provide a source of food, but also help to maintain water quality.
Aquarium maintenance: advice and tips
If you prefer to keep butterfly koi in an aquarium, there are a few things you need to bear in mind if you want to provide them with a suitable environment.
Volume and equipment
An aquarium of 6000 litres is recommended for these large fish (see our dedicated article). Here are a few points to bear in mind:
- Temperature : between 10 and 25 °C
- pH : 7,2 – 8
- Filtration : a robust filtration system to prevent pollution
Plants and decoration
Aquatic and marsh plants should be present to provide hiding places and a natural environment. This also helps to stabilise water parameters, which are essential for healthy fish.
By thinking carefully about the layout of your pond or aquarium, and respecting the specific needs of butterfly koi carp, you can enjoy their beauty and tranquillity. As a animal loverSeeing these fish evolve is a real source of daily satisfaction.
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