Reasonable feeding of koi carp requires considering the following aspects:
Food Types and Nutritional Ratios: Koi carp are omnivorous fish and require a balanced diet. During the juvenile stage, they need high-protein foods to support their growth and development. The protein content is recommended to be 45%-50%, accompanied by 10%-12% fat and 15%-20% carbohydrates. For adult koi, the protein content should be 30%-40%, with fat accounting for 5%-10% and carbohydrates accounting for 20%-30%. Plant-based feeds such as water plants and algae can provide fiber and vitamins, while animal-based feeds like mosquito larvae and small shrimp are rich in protein and fat.
Feeding Amount and Frequency:
When the water temperature is suitable (22-27°C): Feed the koi twice a day, and the amount of each feeding should be such that the koi can finish it within 5-10 minutes.
When the water temperature is low (below 18°C): Feed the koi once a day, and reduce the amount to avoid indigestion caused by overfeeding.
When the water temperature is high (above 27°C): Feed the koi twice a day, but reduce the amount to prevent the water quality from deteriorating due to overfeeding.
When the water temperature is too low or too high (below 10°C or above 30°C): Stop feeding to avoid increasing the digestive burden on the koi.
Feeding Time and Method: It is recommended to feed the koi in the early morning or evening, as the koi are more active and have stronger digestion abilities at these times. Before feeding, you can soak the pellet feed in the pond water to make it easier for the koi to digest.
Water Quality Management: After feeding, clean up the remaining feed in a timely manner to prevent the water quality from deteriorating. During rainy and cloudy days and at night, reduce or stop feeding to avoid oxygen deficiency in the water.
Observing the Condition of Koi Carp: You can judge the digestion and satiety of the koi by observing the color of their feces. Green, brown, or black feces indicate normal digestion, while white feces may indicate overfeeding.