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| Title: | Over-wintering pond fish |
| Author: | Brett Fogle |
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The metabolism of koi and goldfish is controlled primarily by
water temperature. As the water cools, pond fish require less
protein in their diet. When koi and goldfish are fed
high-protein food in cool water, the excess protein is excreted
as ammonia from the gills. The microscopic organisms that make
up the biological filter (and consume ammonia) also slow down in
cooler water. Improper seasonal feeding can lead to a build-up
of toxic ammonia, which stresses fish and reduces their winter
survivability. When the water temperature drops to approximately
65° F, start feeding with Spring & Autumn Pond Food. This type
of fish food is better suited for the dietary requirements of
pond fish in cool water and won’t pollute the water with excess
ammonia. Some water gardeners continue to feed their fish until
they no longer come to the surface. I stop feeding my pond fish
when the water falls below 42° F. There is no need to worry
about "frozen fish" if a section of the pond is at least 18
inches deep. Pond fish will seek the deepest part of the pond
and over-winter there until the water warms in the spring. If
your pond is less than 18 inches deep, the fish may freeze
during a harsh winter. Check with your local pond supplier if
you live in an area with harsh winters. Some water gardeners
with shallow ponds attempt to keep their koi and goldfish in
kiddie pools or aquariums set up in a cool basement or garage.
This is not recommended because of the extra stress involved in
netting, transporting, and re-acclimating the fish to the new
environment. However, if you dont have a choice, and need to
bring your fish inside for the winter, be sure to have an
aquarium air pump or small fountain to provide oxygenation. The
fish should be fed infrequently, if at all, depending on the
water temperature. pH, ammonia and nitrite, which should be
monitored weekly and especially if the fish are fed. Small water
changes (20%) each month will keep the water in good shape until
spring. Koi are "jumpers"-so be sure to cover the pool with bird
netting!
About the author:
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Brett Fogle is the owner of MacArthur Water Gardens and several
pond-related websites. He also publishes a free monthly
newsletter called PondStuff! with a reader circulation of over
6,000 pond owners. To sign up for the free newsletter and
receive a complimentary 'New Pond Owners Guide' for joining,
visit MacArthur
Water Gardens
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