With an increasing demand for aquarium fishes, coupled with fast depleting coral reefs in the country, alternative means of supplying export requirements for aquarium fishes should be developed. Inland culture of freshwater aquarium fishes is fast gaining popularity brought by increasing number of hobbyists, collectors, and pet dealers.

One of these aquarium fishes is the Japanese carp or “koi” nishikigoi in Japan. A variety of ornamental carp that have become the favorite residents of fresh-water ponds all over the world because of their characteristics to withstand a wide range of water temperature and resistants to parasites. They are bred to develop a beautiful body shape, vivid colors, and unique patterns. Mature Koi commonly grow to between 24 and 36 inches and can live up to 50 to 75 years.

Unfortunately, the development of beautiful shapes, colors, and patterns have caused Koi to have a weak immune system, so avid Koi Keepers take special care to have a large volume of well-filtered water. The most common mistake that is made by new pond builders is to think that Koi are hearty, and can live in small ponds with shallow water and a little bit of filtration. The best environment for Koi is to provide them with a minimum of 1000 gallons of water, with a minimum depth of 4 feet, a large filter, and good circulation and oxygenation.