| The metabolism of koi and goldfish is controlled | | | | and over-winter there until the water warms inthe |
| primarily bywater temperature. As the water | | | | spring. If your pond is less than 18 inches deep, |
| cools, pond fish require lessprotein in their diet. | | | | the fishmay freeze during a harsh winter. Check |
| When koi and goldfish are fed high-proteinfood in | | | | with your local pondsupplier if you live in an area |
| cool water, the excess protein is excreted as | | | | with harsh winters. |
| ammoniafrom the gills. The microscopic organisms | | | | Some water gardeners with shallow ponds |
| that make up thebiological filter (and consume | | | | attempt to keep their koiand goldfish in kiddie |
| ammonia) also slow down in coolerwater. | | | | pools or aquariums set up in a coolbasement or |
| Improper seasonal feeding can lead to a build-up | | | | garage. This is not recommended because of the |
| of toxicammonia, which stresses fish and reduces | | | | extrastress involved in netting, transporting, and |
| their wintersurvivability. When the water | | | | re-acclimating thefish to the new environment. |
| temperature drops to approximately | | | | However, if you dont have a choice, and need to |
| 65° F, start feeding with Spring & | | | | bring your fishinside for the winter, be sure to |
| Autumn Pond Food. This type offish food is | | | | have an aquarium air pump orsmall fountain to |
| better suited for the dietary requirements of | | | | provide oxygenation. The fish should be |
| pondfish in cool water and won't pollute the water | | | | fedinfrequently, if at all, depending on the water |
| with excessammonia. Some water gardeners | | | | temperature. pH,ammonia and nitrite, which should |
| continue to feed their fish untilthey no longer | | | | be monitored weekly andespecially if the fish are |
| come to the surface. I stop feeding my pond | | | | fed. |
| fishwhen the water falls below 42° F. | | | | Small water changes (20%) each month will keep |
| There is no need to worry about "frozen fish" if a | | | | the water in goodshape until spring. Koi are |
| section of thepond is at least 18 inches deep. | | | | "jumpers"-so be sure to cover thepool with bird |
| Pond fish will seek the deepestpart of the pond | | | | netting! |