Early spring is a very stressful time in the colder parts of the U.S., because the fish have been dormant so long and now have to cope with a lot of water temperature fluctuation!
For this reason, it is very important to really take care and keep water quality at an optimum at this time of year. Particularly if Koi or Golden Orfe are present in the Pond.
The digestive system of Koi depends entirely on its intestine (Koi have no stomachs) and when the water is cold their intestines do not work at the normal rate. That is why it is important to feed Koi a low protein diet in the spring.
Beneficial bacteria have not had time to establish a sufficient colony to deal with great loads of fish waste, there again the amount, type and quality of the fish food is important (like the old saying goes: garbage in--garbage out!).
It is best to start feeding slowly and to measure nitrites about once a week until the weather stabilizes, especially in ponds with many and/or expensive fish (or those dear to the heart)!
Remember, our free e-book "Spring Start-Up" is available for download on our website!
Products necessary for a good start in the spring pond can be found here.
2 comments:
Very good information, in particular your explaination of the digestive system of koi and why they should be started of slow in the spring.
Carl; A Clear Pond
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