Our Guide To Keeping Ghost Koi Carp Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Cyprinus carpio
- Common name: Ghost Koi Carp
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Origin: United Kingdom (hybrid of Common Carp and Metallic Ogon Koi)
- Adult length: 60 to 90 cm (can exceed 100 cm in ideal conditions)
- Lifespan: 20 to 30 years (some may live longer with excellent care)
- Diet: Omnivore
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful but bold
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Tank Setup:
- Ghost Koi are best suited for large, well-filtered garden ponds. A minimum of 1500L is recommended, with more space for multiple individuals.
- Provide plenty of open swimming areas along with natural features like aquatic plants, rocks, and shaded zones.
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Water Parameters:
- Maintain a pH between 6.8 and 8.0.
- Ideal water temperature range is 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures if acclimated properly.
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- Use a high-quality pond filtration system to manage their large bioload and maintain clear, oxygenated water.
- Gentle to moderate water flow is preferred, with supplemental aeration from air stones or waterfalls.
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Diet:
- Offer a balanced diet of high-quality koi pellets formulated for growth and coloration.
- Supplement with fresh vegetables (like peas and lettuce), fruits (like watermelon), and protein sources such as earthworms, silkworms, or bloodworms.
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Tank mates:
- Ghost Koi are peaceful and can be kept with other koi varieties, large goldfish, golden orfe, and tench.
- Do not house them with aggressive fish or small species that may be outcompeted or injured.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Ghost Koi are known for being more robust and less shy than traditional koi, often approaching humans during feeding time.
- They are social, enjoy the company of their own kind, and thrive in groups in a calm pond environment.