Koi Pond Construction - How to Build a Koi Pond

Unlike an ordinary pond, a koi pond has to be constructed with ample care to grow and sustain koi fish. Most of the ponds are permanent constructions and it is difficult to alter the design or location once built. If you construct the koi pond in the right way, you can save the extra effort and money that would otherwise be required for its alteration. Hence, careful study is needed regarding the location, design and purpose of the construction. If you want to grow fish, you should take care of the requirements of that particular fish while constructing the pond. This article gives some tips and help in constructing a koi pond, used for growing koi fish.

What are Koi Fish?

Koi fish are ornamental varieties of common carp and are also known as Japanese carp. This domesticated variety is commonly used for decorative purposes in ponds and water gardens. Koi was developed in Japan during the 1820s and its Japanese name means 'brocaded carp'. It is believed that this fish is a symbol of love and friendship, which made it very popular among the masses. Apart from that, koi is available in a variety of colors, color combinations and designs, which have further enhanced its popularity. Often people tend to mistake goldfish for koi. Though both are the descendants of carp, goldfish originated from crucian carp, whereas koi was developed from common carp. Moreover, koi sport two whiskers, but goldfish lack this appendage.

How to Build a Koi Pond?

Koi being a popular ornamental fish, there are many people who want to build a koi pond. This article is meant for people who need some information regarding how to build a koi pond. Koi pond construction is not similar to that of an ordinary pond, as the former is an outdoor aquarium exclusively for koi. So, it must be built according to the nature and requirements of this particular fish. The pond you are going to construct will transform into a living habitat for koi. Hence, it must be able to offer the right growing conditions for koi fish. The following are some guidelines to help you build a koi pond.

• The first and foremost thing is to decide whether you want professional help for the task or you want to do it on your own. In case of professional help, you must select someone experienced in this work. If you decide to do it on your own, then collect as much as information as you can on this subject and invest in a good koi pond kit.
• The most important point regarding a koi pond is that you should make it as much big as you can, as these fish live for a maximum period of 30 years and they can get bigger. Another reason is that once you build the pond, alteration is very difficult. While building a koi pond, you have to take care that it should be at least four feet deep. It should be dug below the frost line, in order to avoid searching for some alternative arrangement during the frost seasons.
• The location for koi pond construction should not be in direct sunlight. Shade should provided to the fish, but avoid building under overhanging trees. There are many types of pond lining like concrete, fiberglass, etc. You can select any of them according to your budget, the type of soil, and ground conditions.
• It is always better to build a koi pond above the ground level to avoid chemicals and other dirt running into the pond. It also prevents the koi form darting outside. If building underground, you can raise the edges of the pond by about six inches to avoid these problems. This level can be increased for better results. You can use a net over the pond to prevent birds from feeding on your pets. In some places, it is mandatory to build a fence around your pond.
• Filtration is very important as far as koi pond construction is concerned. You can use swimming pool filters, bead filters or bio filters for this purpose. Always make sure that it is big enough for your pond.
• You must also use an UV light sterilizer, which is commonly known as a water clarifier. This device helps to kill the algae and other micro-organisms in the pond and keeps the water fresh.
• The last thing you need is the feed. Koi needs lots of food, which is available in various forms. You must take care of any changes in the water chemistry and avoid chlorinated water for filing the pond. The pH level of ammonia, nitrate and nitrite should be perfect to avoid your fish from getting sick. You may also go for koi pond waterfall ideas, which can enhance the beauty of your pond.

Once you have completed the koi pond construction and made it functional, you have to invest some time for the maintenance of a koi pond. It is very important to take care of the koi pond on a daily basis. A koi pond will add to the beauty of your garden, and if constructed properly, will last for years to come.