A symbol of good luck in Japan, fish fanciers in Florida are installing backyard ponds to house their fish, even if they only have room for one. The descendants of the common carp have much to recommend them and are extremely popular. They’re colorful, very hardy, can live happily outdoors year-round, and thrive in the Florida climate.
The record-holding koi in the UK was one called Big Girl that weighed in at 90 lbs. in 2007 and came from Japan. A koi named Hanako lived for an amazing 226 years before her death in 1977. The scarlet beauty was born in Japan in 1751 and carefully kept records verified her longevity.
Koi enthusiasts need to know that a little 5-inch koi can attain lengths of 2 to 4 ft., weigh 12 to 20 lbs., and live up to 35 years under the proper conditions. Outdoor ponds will need to be at least 3 ft. deep to prevent incursions by fish-eating birds and raccoons. The pond will need to be placed out of direct sunlight, be sufficiently oxygenated, and have appropriate plants provided.
Aquatic veterinarians recommend a minimum of 250 gallons of water for a single adult koi. A young koi won’t need 250 gallons, but a full-grown koi will and they grow fairly quickly. Anything less will stunt their growth. Every koi won’t attain 24-inches in length, but genetics are tricky. Individuals need to be prepared for the possibility if they want their fish to flourish and live a long and happy life.
Koi is available in patterns of red, blue, yellow, cream, white and black, along with those that have a metallic sheen. There are approximately 100 named varieties of koi. They’re fairly intelligent and can be trained to eat from a person’s hand. There are even koi shows. Highly graceful, they impart a sense of peace and tranquility. As living creatures, koi shouldn’t be viewed simply as a design element in landscapes, but as treasured friends.
RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.
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