[Worldwide Koi Club] A Question
Hi Brenda, There is absolutely no reason for you to be putting rocks, dirt, or anything else in the tank you’re using to winter your koi in. Rocks and such provide no benefit for the koi or filtration, …. and over time can be harmful to the koi if not maintained properly.
How big is the tank or tanks you winter your koi in? How much, and what type of filtration are you providing for the tanks? What temperature do you keep the tank water? Do you winter all 24 of your koi inside? What size pumps do you use for your wintering tanks?
I have a feeling the fish load in your wintering tanks may be way too high, and your biofilters not adequate enough to maintain correct water parameters. IF, … you winter all of your koi inside, you might consider leaving the larger koi outside in your main pond for the winter, and only taking your smaller koi in for the winter so they can grow out during the winter. If that’s what you decide to do, you must be sure to do a thorough cleaning of the main pond and filters before winter arrives, and consider treating your pond for parasites. There may not be a noticeable problem with parasites, but it’s best to make sure the koi will be wintering in the cleanest, safest environment you can provide. It’s during the winter months that a large percentage of problems with parasites will get a hold in your pond. Then when the water starts to warm, the parasitic population in the pond explodes. That usually happens when the waters are cold enough that the koi immune systems are not able to fight off parasitic and/or bacterial attacks. Knowing your water environment is at its best for the koi is your best guarantee of them coming through the winter doldrums in good health.
Don ikeepkoi
parasites whether your koi are showing signs
Category: Philippines Internet Koi Society
