Koi fish can grow as much as 36-40 inches when fully matured or a growth rate of 0.7-0.8 inch per month, depending on the variety of koi a hobbyist own. The largest recorded koi in history is about 4 feet long and weighs a whopping 90 lbs. Their lifespan is about 20-30 years.

There are a lot of things to consider if we want optimized size, color and lifespan of koi. Some believed that the pond should depicts their natural environment. Others says the key to succeed is the quality of water, oxygen and filtration.

But the first question to ask is that, how can we tell if a koi is of superior quality in size and color? Well, a healthy koi has a broad head, streamlined body that is comparable to a guided bomb. Its colors are bright, deep and intense, patters are distinct, and free from any deformities such as lumps, bumps and bruises.

Where can we find these traits? We should find a reputable and trusted breeders who can supply you with quality koi. The genetics and knowing who are the parents play very important role to achieve certain size, pattern and color.

Now that you have your koi supplied by trusted breeder, the fun and fulfilling part is taking good care of them. You have to setup a pond that koi can live ideal in an ideal environment providing shade, oxygen, filtration and vegetation. Pond also should be spacious. If you want your koi to grow bigger, the deeper the pond should be.

It’s time to keep track of your koi’s growth. Here are some of the tips for you

1.Check water quality – The best way to do it is to have a water tester and an effective filtration system. Bad water quality will destroy your pond or aquarium. Damage to the koi are oftentimes irreversible if not checked properly. Keeping the pH level of 7.0 to 8.5.

2.Water temperature – This is as important as tip # 1. We separated this to emphasize on certain things. Koi, like all fish are cold blooded animals. Meaning they cannot regulate or maintain their body temperature as they are dependent on their environment. The water temperature dictates their activity in the water. It also has direct effect on their metabolism and appetite. Koi in warmer water observed have higher energy which translate to them being fed more. The more they eat, the more they grow. Same is true when the water is cold. It slows down their activity, metabolism and appetite resulting to reduced growth.

3.Koi measuring tank – There are several methods to measure koi but what we recommend is the use of measuring tank. However, proper precautions are to be exercised and one must ensure that the one handling the koi is comfortable doing so.  You need to have a net or preferably a koi bowl to capture them and the tank is close enough so that the fish can be transferred quickly and safely. Most measuring tanks have adhesive ruler outside so it is very safe to use.