Koi Pond
The Koi pond has become quite popular in the United States
and around the world. Koi fish are essentially domesticated carp, but
over the centuries have been bred for color variations. Originally a
fish that was kept as a source of food, Koi have become a colorful addition
to many water gardens throughout the world.
Being carp, Koi are naturally bottom feeders. While there are many
people that suggest incorporating Koi into a water garden is a death
sentence to any plant life, there are plenty of examples of the opposite
being true. Most experts agree that a Koi pond should have water plants
to offer shade and protection for the fish. The trick is to find plants
that the Koi can eat but won’t completely destroy. Fast growing
plants like watercress are often recommended.
Because Koi can grow to be quite large, it is extremely important that
a Koi pond be large enough to accommodate them. Experts often suggest
that the pond be at least three feet deep, so that the fish can easily
move about. The depth is also important because it allows the fish to
swim deeper during hot weather in order to keep cool.