Butterfly Koi Care Guide
Butterfly koi are a long-finned breed of the common carp Cyprinus carpio, kept in large ponds and reaching 60-90 cm.
Overview
Butterfly koi are a breed of the common carp, Cyprinus carpio, belonging to the domesticated koi group. They are also called longfin koi or dragon carp and are notable for their elongated, trailing finnage. According to Wikipedia, the breed was developed in Japan from 1980, originating from a cross involving long-finned carp.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Cyprinus
- Scientific name: Cyprinus carpio var. Butterfly
- Note: ornamental breed of the common carp
Description
The defining trait of butterfly koi is their elongated fins; the fin-to-body ratio greatly exceeds that of standard nishikigoi. Their bodies tend to be more slender than traditional koi. The long fins are vulnerable to fin rot and damage and require clean water and adequate filtration.
Tank requirements
- Minimum volume: 4000 L (about 1057 gal); roughly 1000 gal per fish recommended
- Pond depth: at least 90 cm (3 ft)
- Temperature: 4-26 °C (39-79 °F); optimal around 15-25 °C
- pH: 7.0-8.5
- GH: 8-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 25-50 years
Butterfly koi grow large and are pond fish rather than aquarium fish. As cool-tolerant carp, their immune systems weaken in cold water, and feeding should stop when water drops below about 10 °C.
Diet
Butterfly koi are omnivorous. A balanced, high-protein diet supplemented with vegetables and occasional earthworms or shrimp is appropriate. Like other koi, they are bottom-oriented feeders and can learn to take food from the keeper's hand.
Compatibility
Butterfly koi are peaceful and are typically kept with other koi in ponds. They uproot and graze on plants, so heavily planted setups are difficult. They are not suited to indoor aquarium-only setups due to their size.