Assorted Butterfly KoiButterfly koi, longfin koi, or dragon carp are a type of ornamental fish notable for their elongated fins. The fish are a breed of the common carp, Cyprinus carpio, which includes numerous wild carp races as well as domesticated koi ("Nishikigoi"). Butterfly koi originated in the mid-20th century as a result of an effort to increase the hardiness of traditional koi. Japanese breeders interbred wild Indonesian longfin river carp with traditional koi. The resulting fish had longer fins, long barbells, pompom nostrils, and were hardier than koi. These were known in Japan as "onagaoi" or "hire naga goi", or translated in English "long tail carp". These stunning UK-bred Butterfly Koi are perfect for outdoor ponds. They grow to a large size and will need a minimum depth of 3ft. Colour supplied at random.Please be aware that the image is for illustration purposes only. We are unable to guarantee the exact size, colour, sex or age of the assorted butterfly koi you are purchasing. Why are they called Butterfly Koi?Randy LeFever, the son of Wyatt LeFever, a noted breeder of koi, is credited with suggesting they looked like butterflies, a trait for which the breed is named. Do Butterfly Koi eat plants?Ornamental Koi tend to have an uneasy relationship with pond plants. Either they will eat them, or move them around so much as to damage them. It is generally not a good idea to keep plants in a dedicated Koi pond. Plus, it is so much more rewarding to view your prized Koi fish unobstructed. FeaturesApprox. supplied size: 8-10cm / 3-4"Maximum size: 90cmOrigin: Japan - They are a hybridFamily: CyprinidIdeal number kept together: 1+ Water ConditionsOur conditions: pH 7.5, temp 12 °CWater flow: low to moderateIdeal temperature: 2–30 °C Ease of CareEasy to moderate. Will tolerate varied water conditions. CompatibilityButterfly Koi will happily live with other Koi and coldwater species, but avoid smaller goldfish or minnows who may nip their fins. DietFeed a mixture of flake and small pellets. To achieve growth, feed a high-protein pond pellet. When it gets colder you can feed them Wheatgerm, however, do not feed them below 10°C. BreedingEgg layers, readily farmed in captivity. Life SpanKoi can live 25-35 years in perfect conditions. For more information on general fishkeeping and our shipping procedures click here.
