The pond's nitrogen cycle has a process to keep everything in balance. When we add too many fish, don't clean out rotting debris in the bottom of the pond, install a filtration system that isn't adequate for the pond size or feed the fish too much food, we mess up the nitrogen cycle. You need to understand what is okay for feeding the fish, the correct filtration system size and the number of fish.
• Feeding your Fish - During warm weather you should feed your Koi a diet rich in protein 2-3 times per day. Only feed them amounts that they can consume within a few minutes. When they are finished, remove any uneaten food. When the water temperature drops to the 60's in the pond begin giving them their fall food (wheat germ). Then when the water drops below 50 degrees you should stop feeding the fish. Feeding them during this time of year could make them sick because their respiration, metabolism and overall activity slow down.
• Number of fish--Determine the amount of water that is in your pond. Once you know how much water there is then you can determine the acceptable amount of fish you should have. The very minimum amount of fish is 1 per 100 gallons of water. Keeping in mind that your fish are going to grow, a better plan is 1 mature fish for every 300 gallons of water. Overcrowding can cause many health concerns for your fish. The more water per fish, the better.
• Filtration system--You need to make sure you purchase a large enough filtration system (filter and pump) for your pond. The two very essential things that you must calculate prior to your purchase is the amount of water in your pond and the head pressure. Water should be calculated in gallons. The head pressure is the force that a pond pump must overcome in order to begin pumping water out of a waterfall. The water should circulate through the pond system every hour. When determining your filtration system also keep in mind where your pond is located. A pond under a tree may require more circulation in the spring and fall due to the dropping of leaves, flowers, nuts and sticks.
If you do not have these three requirements right, the nitrogen cycle will be thrown out of balance. The ammonia levels, pH measurement, nitrite readings, and nitrate levels will be impacted. When these levels are not at acceptable levels your fish can become very sick, have problems later, or could even die.
The three requirements can seem quite simple. However they have a large impact on your Koi. Be kind to your Koi and test your water. Fix any levels in your waterfall pond that are not acceptable. Your Koi will greatly appreciate all of your efforts.
Vickie Talley
Knight Enterprises LLC
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