Domestic Koi are praised for their hardiness and variety of colors and patterns. For this reason, Koi are often regarded as the "kings" of pond fish. These farm-raised members of the Cyprinidae family are available in a variety of colors and patterns, but are most commonly white, yellow, orange, or a combination of these colors. Originally from Japan, Domestic Koi are bred in fish farms in the southern USA. While Koi are rumored to live more than 200 years in the wild, their typical life span in captivity is between 25 and 35 years.

The ideal setup for Domestic Koi is a 1,000+ gallon pond with a fine gravel substrate, rocks, and hardy plants. Because these Koi savor plant roots and will dig to get to them, be sure to place large rocks around the base of plants to protect them. You will also need to provide adequate filtration to maintain proper water conditions.

Males are easily identified by their concave anal section and occasionally by breeding spots on the head. Spawning may result in as many as 1,000 eggs, with fry emerging in approximately 4 to 7 days, depending on the water temperature. Feed fry small live foods or frozen daphnia for the first 3 to 4 weeks. At that time, gradually change their diet to crushed flake and pellet foods. Their color will emerge in about 3 to 12 weeks.

Feed Domestic Koi a quality pellet or flake food. While aggressive eaters, Domestic Koi make great pets and can be taught to eat from your hand.

For specific colors, color forms, or varieties of Koi, please check the selection of Japanese Koi.

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1" to 2"; Small/Medium: 2" to 3"; Medium: 3" to 4-1/2"; Medium/Large: 4-1/2" to 6"; Large: 6" to 8"; XLarge: 8" to 10"