Buying koi fish can be a rewarding experience if you do your research. The best way to start is to find a reputable koi dealer and ask for references. Once you've found one, you can start looking at available photos of the varieties. There are many options when it comes to koi, including mail-order.

 

When you buy a butterfly koi, it is important to remember that they can change in color and pattern over time. You don't want to pay for a fish that will look ugly after a few months. It is better to have a few quality koi instead of many inexpensive ones.

 

If you are purchasing a new koi, it is important to quarantine them. This will reduce the risk of infection or disease. Quarantine is also beneficial for a koi's immune system. Also, you will be able to see if the fish is healthy. A few things to watch for include raised bumps on the fins, white patches on the skin, and a lack of interest in koi food.

 

Besides ensuring your new koi's health, you should also look for signs of parasites or diseases. These include blackened fin edges, white patches, and a lack of interest in pond food. Make sure to quarantine your koi for at least two weeks before you put them in the main tank.

 

Quality koi fish can live up to 50 years, with proper care. However, they can be very expensive. Grade-A koi, imported from Japan, costs more than locally sourced koi. Because of the cost, some people may prefer to buy a less expensive koi from their local pet store.

 

Purchasing a mail-order koi can be a great deal. Depending on the size of your order, you can expect to save up to 30 percent. Many mail-order koi are shipped by air freight. Other methods of delivery include door-to-door overnight, which is the cheapest and most reliable.

 

Once you've purchased your koi, it is your responsibility to take care of them. This includes feeding them, aerating the water, and changing the water in their quarantine tank. Doing so will ensure that they are comfortable in their new home and won't cause any problems. Remember to give your new koi at least five minutes a day to observe their behavior.

 

Good quality koi should have a broader body than a head, and a conforming shape. They should also be active, curious, and alert.

 

When it comes to judging, you should join a koi club or talk to "old hands" at a koi show. This will give you more insight into the various judging standards. In addition, many popular books have basic judging standards. Check out this related post to get more enlightened on the topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koi_pond.

 

 

Some koi fish will grow up into mature champions. This can happen unexpectedly. But if you do your research, you can avoid this happening. Buying a quality koi is a smart investment. Whether you choose to purchase a mail-order koi or a locally bred koi, you can rest assured that you'll be getting a high-quality fish.