Having koi in your backyard pond is a very fun and educational experience for all. Like with other pets, they require just as much care, the right environment and proper food. Given the prope\r care, koi live a happy and healthy in your pond. The average lifespan of koi is 25-35 years, although they can live for over 200 years. There are some important steps to consider when thinking about having koi in your backyard pond.

Before you run to your nearest pet store or fishery to buy koi, make sure you have read up on them. Get to know what they require as far as care and environment. Consult a nursery for a referral to a good fish expert as well as reading books, websites, and other sources.

The pond itself needs to be prepared before buying the fish. Make sure the water is filtered and that it is deep enough for the fish. It can be as shallow as 18 inches, however it is advisable that the water be big enough so the fish have a place to retreat to a quiet corner when needed. The fish also need oxygen in the water, which can be accomplished by placing a waterfall or another source of moving water in the pond. Koi will prefer a pH between 7.5 and 8.5 in the water. Now that you've done your research, and prepared your pond, it's time to buy the fish.

It is always best to shop for your fish at a specialty store. Be sure too look for healthy fish with clear eyes, no missing scales and erect fins. The price of the fish often depends on the size, availability, color pattern, as well as shape. Younger fish are usually a lot less expensive. Younger fish, about 3-4 inches long will probably cost less than 10 dollars. Older fish, 22-24 inches long can range from $1,200 and up, occasionally ranging up to $10,000. Butterfly koi are more expensive than regular koi due to their long flowing fins.

Because of their metabolism is slower in the winter, it is best to buy the fish in cooler weather if possible. Koi do fine in cold water, but you should avoid rapidly fluctuating temperatures. Even though koi are a warm water fish who prefer water temperatures of around 78-80 degrees, they are capable of surviving in freezing cold temperatures and water over 86. Deeper ponds are also preferable because the pond temperature is more stable, and will not freeze solid. If you live in an area where the pond will freeze over, be sure to use a floating heater to keep a hole in the ice.

The metabolism of the fish slows down when the water cools off. When the weather starts to cool down, taper off the amount of food that you give them. When the water temperature drops below 50 degrees, you should stop feeding them altogether. When the weather changes for the warmer, their metabolisms will speed up, and you should start gradually feeding them again.. Feeding of koi is quite easy by just feeding them koi pellets which are found online or at a pet store. Make sure to feed them twice a day. With some training, it is even possible to teach koi to eat out of your hand. It is also advisable to provide hiding places in the pond such as a space under some rocks or a pond cover so the fish can hide from predators such as raccoons, or your neighbor's cat.

Koi will add a nice splash of color to your pond. Properly cared for, they will provide years of entertainment, as you relax, watching thise wonderful fish gliding slowly and peacefully through the water of your pond.