The Japanese 'Koi' In Malaysia

Fish lovers will certainly have a lot to say about the beauty and good luck charms that certain fishes naturally have in good amounts. Today, we shall look at the Japanese Koi (Cyprinus Carpio) which is increasingly kept by many fish enthusiasts, for the good luck or 'ong' as the Chinese call it. In a mixed culture such as ours, great importance on 'feng shui' is followed by a vast majority of the people other than the Chinese majority. Though the others have their own way of increasing good luck or 'feng shui' in their respective households, fish are being looked upon as big time Luck Bringers' that reverberates 'ONG' with a capital 'O' in many households.

So, fish hobbyists in the country will continue rearing good luck fishes although it may be one past-time that is costly. Well, looking from the 'koi' enthusiasts' point of view, it is one of the most exhilarating and colourful hobby that can bring immense pleasure and hours of fun! The life-span of some variety can go up to even 200 years. Just imagine ... our grandchildren getting to know these species of fish. Hopefully, they can be preserved just like all the other beloved animals in the animal kingdom ... with well-deserved recognition.

How does the Japanese 'Koi' been able to make such a big impression?

Well, let's see what makes it one of the top most delightful hobbies among fish enthusiasts. However, the price range to set up a tank, aquarium or pond varies greatly, in other words it all depends on your budget and the available size and space. No matter what, all the different types of 'koi' fish can leave you breathless with their colour combinations and graceful movements. Their swimming skills and at times 'popping in and out of the water' gestures gives the 'koi' a playful disposition. They love to eat and it is indeed good to control their eating habits with food fed just once a day. However, it is difficult to ignore the 'koi' especially when it looks so affectionate and irresistible. Kids and adults can spend hours just looking at these remarkable pets.

Types of 'koi'

The different 'koi' names vary, such as 'Kohaku, Utsuri, Shusui, Showa, Ogon, Tancho, Sanke and others. The colours are usually mixed up such as orange and white, black and white, platinum or silver, gold in colour, and combinations of black orange and white.

Setting up 'Koi' in a pond (fresh water)

Before you place 'koi' in a pond for the first time, make sure you allow time for your pond to mature. “Koi' experts believe new ponds must be filled and drained several times to rinse out any impurities that may be present. A newly constructed pond may look safe but then, it is not so. Only time and patience will ensure a safe environment for these fishes. The precious 'koi' that you bought for such a high price should be introduced into the pond after much filling and flushing out. This must be done for roughly every week for about one to two months. Those who are not patient will end up with their expensive batch of koi' floating beneath! This could only mean bad news….. and a heavy heart of course.

There are indoor and outdoor filtration systems. Do remember that the biggest enemy and main cause for algae is the presence of sunlight. To keep algae away you must use the UV filtration system. Waterproof systems are for the outdoors. The pond will look clean and easy to manage when all instructions are followed carefully. Ask advice from the experts if you are in doubt! The pH for your pond should be 6.0 - 7.5 only.

Decorative live plants and animals that can be placed in a pond or tank to give it a more natural look are:

The Star tortoise (black color with orange yellowish stripes): They always stay on rocks placed in ponds and are seldom under water. The water level can be high provided lots of rocks are also available. The 'star tortoise' prefers to stay out of water unlike the terrapin which loves swimming.

However, these tortoises have now been included in the list of protected species and it should not be kept as pets unless you have obtain a wildlife permit.

Water frog (dark and light green in color): The 'water frog' always stick to the sides of the aquarium or pond and it is nice to see it slipping down slowly into the water. They love swimming too.

Terrapins (dark green): They look good in ponds too, but bear in mind that these little fellows love to be in the water, make sure water is always clean and hygienic with no algae. Algae forms because of sunlight, so a filtration system which naturally flushes out algae is the best.

Lotus plants: They look really good floating in the pond.

Water lilies: They look really good floating in the pond.

Pebbles and rocks: These are very important if you want a natural border for your pond. They are best partly submerged in a pond so that 'star tortoises' have a comfy place to rest when not in water.

Waterfall: To install a fountain you must purchase a fountain nozzle and power head. The sight of water cascading is indeed breathtaking.

Mist maker: The 'koi' fish loves a natural surrounding like its homeland where it is cool and the mist maker helps give the pond a serene and cool effect.

If in doubt about these pond set ups, please do not hesitate to call us without any hesitation. We will try our best to assist you in any way possible.

We shall look at more dogs next week. So please keep a look out to find out more…..exciting news on the large breed dogs in particular.

Pet owners who wish to know more about pets and pet care please call our customer service line at 03-40432420 or email us at customercare@petscorner.com.my.