Koi Carp

Breed: Koi Carp
Scientific name: Cyprinus rubrofuscus
Place of Origin: Japan
Classification: Carp
Average Price: R100 - R5,000+

Size Category: large
Avg. Height: 90 cm.
Avg. Weight: 5 to 15 Kg.
Avg. Lifespan: 25 to 40 years.

Colours:
Orange, white, black, yellow, red (various combinations)

Covering:
scales

Vocalisation level:
quiet

Temprament:
Peaceful pond fish that can be trained to eat from their owner's hand.

Trainability:
difficult

Diet type: omnivore
Feeding frequency: Once or twice a day in warmer months.

Foods to avoid:
Overfeeding, especially in winter.

Health Concerns:
Susceptible to parasites and bacterial infections if water quality is poor. Good filtration is essential.

Recommended Supplements:
Colour-enhancing food is available to brighten their patterns.

Grooming:
N/A – dependent on pond maintenance.

Exercise:
Requires a large pond to swim freely and stay healthy.

Handling:
Generally safe; netting can cause scale and slime coat damage if not done carefully.
Ideal Location:
Outdoor ponds nationwide, but thrive in the temperate climates of Gauteng and the KZN Midlands.

Space Requirements:
Minimum 4000 litres of water for a small group.

Climate Suitability: temperate

Temperature Range: 15-25°C

Humidity Range: N/A