Our Guide To Keeping Butterfly Koi Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Cyprinus rubrofuscus
- Common name: Butterfly Koi
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Origin: East Asia
- Adult length: Up to 90 cm
- Lifespan: 20 to 30 years
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Tank Setup:
- Butterfly Koi require a large pond or a very spacious tank. A minimum pond size of 1000L is recommended for a small group.
- Ensure plenty of swimming space and include features like rocks, plants, and shaded areas to create a natural environment.
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Water Parameters:
- Butterfly Koi thrive in a range of water conditions but prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0.
- Maintain the water temperature between 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A strong filtration system is crucial to maintain water quality due to the size and waste production of Butterfly Koi.
- Moderate to strong water flow is ideal to keep the water well-oxygenated.
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Diet:
- Butterfly Koi are omnivores and should be fed a high-quality koi pellet as the staple diet.
- Supplement their diet with fresh vegetables like lettuce, peas, and spinach, as well as live or frozen foods like worms and insect larvae.
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Tank mates:
- Butterfly Koi are generally peaceful and can coexist with other large, non-aggressive fish.
- Suitable tank mates include other koi, goldfish, and large, peaceful fish species.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Butterfly Koi are active swimmers and display graceful movements with their long, flowing fins.
- Avoid keeping them with small or aggressive fish species that may nip at their fins or outcompete them for food.