When it comes to Ghost Koi, customers often wonder: What exactly are they? Can you keep them with regular koi? Why are they considered a reasonable offer? And what do these mysterious fish eat?
The name “Ghost Koi” fits well because there are some mysteries around these fish. In this guide, we will try to solve some of these questions. We aim to help you understand everything you need about Koi Ghost Fish.
What are ghosts Koi?
So, you might know about those colorful and cool koi fish in the ponds, right? People love them as they come in a variety of patterns and lovely colors. These stunning fish are prized all around the globe for their peaceful nature, making them perfect additions to garden ponds. Well, some of them are super expensive collection items.
However, in the 1980s, things became interesting when Koi Crap bred with a simpler fish in the wild. That mix created a new kind called Ghost Koi. Top of Form
These new guys have dark circles on their backs and faces, making them stand out. Back in Japan, people did not like them at the beginning, but presently, Ghost Koi is in all lakes around the world, thanks to places like Israel that are trying to make them even cooler.
Surprisingly, Ghost Koi is not much different from the original KOI. They can have babies together! The only significant difference is that the Koi Ghost really likes to eat a lot.
Now, here is the exciting part: not everyone thinks the same. Some people think they are a bit strange and do not fit with the classic Koi gang, while others see them as great and charming. So, whether you are on the traditional team or the ghost koi team, it is a colorful world in Koi Land!
Different varieties of Ghost Koi – How to Identify Them:
When it comes to Ghost Koi, you will find their unique types, each with their own unique characteristics. Let’s look at each variety to get to know them better!
White Ghost Koi:
White Ghost Koi is similar to the traditional KOI and can also have butterfly-like fins. As a result of the crossbreeding between Purachina Ogon and Mirror Carp, these Koi show white pearl scales decorated with black marks on the sides and back. The area between their eyes is usually colorless, and pectoral fins may or may not have marks. As a relatively new variety, no strict color distribution or pattern specifications exist.
Yellow Ghost Koi:
Similar to White Ghost Koi, however, the yellow ghost’s base color is a muted greyish or golden yellow. A Yamabuki Ogon and Mirror Carp hybrid, these Koi show light to dark grey on their sides and back, resembling smudged charcoal. Some may also show white scales, and their pectoral fins with unique brands can show a color gradient. These colors often persist throughout their lives.
Butterfly Ghost Koi:
The butterfly Ghost Koi encompasses both yellow and white types of ghost koi; however, they are distinguished by their elongated fins that resemble butterfly wings. While some lovers adore the beauty of these fish, there is little controversy surrounding them. Many prefer to keep the traits of Ghost Koi and Butterfly Koi separate. As a result, these hybrids are often found in personal ponds instead of at competitive KOI events or conferences. Despite the debates, those with a general love for ornamental fish would gush at the beauty and gracefulness of butterfly ghost koi.
How do I best take care of Ghost Koi?
Water quality:
- Ghost koi like clean water with a neutral pH level to stay healthy.
- Regular water checks and water changes are essential to prevent diseases.
- Keep the dissolved oxygen levels at 6-7 ppm to provide them with a comfortable home.
Temperature:
- Ghost Koi can handle the temperature changes if your lake is at least 3 feet deep.
- They survived outside, even though the pond’s surface freezes in the winter.
- Ideal tank temperature: 18-24˚C (64-75˚F) for happy metabolism.
Food:
- Ghost Koi likes fish feed and natural foods in spring and summer.
- Adjust their diet as the temperature changes; switch to wheat-germ feeds in cooler months.
- Hand feeding is a joy – they love to eat with your hand.
Lifespan and growth rate:
- Proper care can make ghost koi survive for about 20 years.
- They can grow up to 30 inches, which is larger than some pet shops.
- Their growth rate is similar to that of the Japanese Koi, which matures gracefully.
Behavior:
- Despite their wild roots, Ghost Koi are friendly and peaceful.
- They are not aggressive with other fish; their behavior is similar to the real Nishikori.
- You will see their odd behavior when you provide them with unbalanced water conditions or crowded ponds.
Breeding Ghost Koi
Ghost Koi is really easy! They can have many babies in a small pond, especially from May to June. However, to avoid their excessive growth, keep the boy and the girl Koi separated during this time.
If you want to breed more ghost koi, you must give the girl a safe place in the pond to put their eggs, such as near floating plants. After the child releases the sperm, collect the eggs and put them in a tightly controlled tank setup that is dedicated to rearing the fingerlings.
Are Ghost Koi hardy?
Yes, Ghost Koi is a bit hardy! They have a connection with the wild carp, which strengthens them. But, like any fish, they can be affected by fish parasites. In our experience, Ghost Koi has fewer health problems and handles parasites better. This is probably because they get good genes from their wild, solid fish relatives.
How much does Ghost Koi cost?
Ghost Koi is less expensive than the elegant and recognized Koi Carp. Koi lovers may not see them as top tiers, such as the show winner Kohaku, but that does not mean that Ghost Koi is not fantastic for your pond.
They bring a lot to the table, giving other fish in the pond great confidence. If you are looking for a big and great addition to your pond that won’t break the bank, Ghost Koi is a great option.