Koi fish tend to be one of the more sensitive types of fish when it comes to keeping them. Couple this with the fact that koi ponds tend to be larger and more elaborate and you’ve got a monumental task ahead of you: maintaining the water to a supreme degree of quality and cleanliness.
Maintaining a koi pond is a big undertaking, there’s no doubt about it, but it’s a task that’s made easier with the right knowledge and some essential pond supplies in Los Angeles, CA. Here’s what you need to know:
- Testing and maintenance is required daily for most sizable koi ponds. Test kits and strips will be the best way to do this, since they take seconds to provide you with the information you need.
- The ammonia level of your pond should be near-zero at all times. If you notice the ammonia levels start to rise, make sure you’re treating the water to lower them back down as quickly as possible.
- Low nitrate levels are also desired for longevity of your koi fish. Again, if tests show nitrate levels on the rise, make the right chemical additions to your pond to stop rising levels.
- The pH of your koi pond should be as neutral as possible. Achieving and maintaining a range between 7 and 7.5 is ideal.
Remember, these are just the basics for pond maintenance at a chemical level. Consult with an expert in regards to the size of your pond and variety of koi living within it when you buy pond supplies in Los Angeles, CA to get a better idea of what you can and should be doing to maintain its integrity.