Koi
Cyprinus carpio
Family : Cyprinidae
The koi is the Japanese ornamental variety of the common carp, prized in ornamental ponds for its spectacular patterns.
Description
Cyprinus carpio reaches 40-80 cm and up to 30 kg. The body is massive, with large scales and a pair of barbels on the lips. Wild color is bronze-greenish; koi varieties show spectacular white, red, black and blue patterns. It is an omnivorous, burrowing fish that stirs the substrate. It is very hardy, lives 20-50 years. The Japanese koi is the most sought-after ornamental variety, kept in deep, well-filtered ponds. It is gregarious and calm.
Habitat
Region :
The carp lives in large freshwater bodies: lakes, ponds, slow rivers and canals. It prefers turbid, nutrient-rich waters with muddy bottoms. It tolerates cold water and low oxygenation.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Koi require a large pond (minimum 2-3 m³ for a small group, ideally more) with strong biological and mechanical filtration. Cold water: 4-25°C, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-20. Minimum depth 1 m for overwintering. Omnivorous: specific koi pellets, vegetables, fruit. Do not overstock (1 koi per m³). Protection against herons and cats. Excellent longevity but slow growth.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
