8 replies to this topic

[tdwhite03]

What kind of growth could I expect to see out of the smaller Koi sold at places like Petsmart?

I have heard an inch per year, but it was not from any type of reliable source.

thanks,

Terry

[FredrikAnderson]

I heard something like "you will see them double in size each of the first 2 years and then 1 inch each year after that" but I am not sure how true that is however the person who said that had at least 4 koi over 2 feet long and has hundred of koi so it may be correct. Obviously there are lots of veriable that will play into this.

[koiguy1969]

1/2" give or take..a month is about what ive seen.

[tdwhite03]

Thanks!

[DrDave]

In an ideal pond environement, my 1year olds are 6-8" and my 2 year olds are 12-14". Some grow faster than others.
They grow slower in a tank indoors.

[koikeepr]

a general rule of thumb is that at 24 months, they will be half of their adult size. So, at two years old, if you've got a 10 inch koi--it will likely be around 20" when full grown. (of course, this is all bearing on a nice roomy pond--otherwise, it can stunt the fish and it will be smaller.)

[poodles-ponds and gardens]

I read recently, perhaps on this forum, that regular water changes affect the growth rate also. I guess the fish put out a growth regulating substance from their gills and the water changes keep that level down in the pond so they grow bigger.

[DrDave]

I see Ian fixed your name. I tried, but that takes an Administrator.

Thanks Ian.

[koikeepr]

yes, folks do swear by water changes and that it does affect the growth of the fish.