Mixed Color Carpes

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Cyprinus carpio
• Common Name: Mixed Color Carpes (commonly known as Koi Carp)
• Adult Size: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm)
  (Some can grow even larger depending on environment and genetics)
• Life Expectancy: 25 to 35 years
  (Some Koi have been known to live over 50 years with excellent care)
• Habitat: Originally from Eastern Europe and Asia, now globally bred in outdoor ponds and large freshwater tanks
  Prefer slow-moving, well-oxygenated freshwater

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 250 gallons per adult koi (Best kept in outdoor ponds)
• Ideal Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
  Can tolerate temperatures from 35°F to 85°F (1.6°C to 29.4°C)
• pH Range: 6.8–8.2
• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Temperament: Peaceful, Sociable
  Good with other koi and non-aggressive pond fish

Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous – feed a varied diet of:

• High-quality koi pellets
• Fresh vegetables (peas, lettuce, spinach)
• Occasional fruits and live/frozen foods (bloodworms, shrimp)
• Can also graze on algae and pond plants

• Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality

Breeding & Spawning

• Egg scatterers – breed in late spring to early summer
• Males chase females and encourage egg-laying on plants or spawning mats
• Adults must be removed after spawning to prevent egg predation

• Eggs hatch in 4–7 days, fry need small live foods at first

Appearance

• Body Shape: Streamlined and torpedo-like
• Coloration: Comes in mixed vibrant colors – white, red, yellow, orange, black, blue, and metallic variations

• Fins: Long, graceful fins in some varieties (e.g., Butterfly Koi)

Distinctive Features

• Known for bright, ornamental coloration
• Highly adaptable to different pond environments
• Can be hand-fed and become tame over time

• Long-living and often symbolic in Japanese culture