Seeing a Koi that is in your care thrive and become more beautiful as it matures, is undoubtedly one of the greatest joys of Koi keeping.
To enjoy the feeding experience more check out »» Hand Feeding Koi
The key to this process is basic care, a healthy environment, and good diet.
Koi Feeding Guide
A Koi's metabolism functions best at temperatures above 70° F. High protein foods are difficult to digest when the water falls below 65° F.
However, Koi still need sufficient carbohydrates for energy when water temperatures are low. This is particularly true for Koi less than 1 year old.
Squash, bread, peas, citrus fruits, and watermelon are good sources of carbohydrates. Never overfeed your fish as they do not have a stomach. Feed smaller quantities more frequently for better nutritional absorption.
Feed only as much as the fish will eat in about 3-5 minutes. Koi pellets should be fresh and used within three months to prevent oxidation of the food.
Water Temp. (°F.)
Feeding Frequency
Food Type
Less than 50ºF.
Do not feed Koi.
Temperatures at 50° F. of more than one month may require supplemental feedings of low protein and high carbohydrates.
50-55ºF
2-3 times a week if Koi are hungry.
High carbohydrate, low protein, laxative type foods. Wheat germ, Cheerios®, squash, lettuce and brown bread.
55-59ºF
4-5 times per week if Koi are hungry.
Add low protein (25%) pellets along with vegetables. Increase quantities gradually as temperature increases.
59ºF
Once per day six days per week.
Low protein (25%) pellets along with high carbohydrate vegetables and fruit.
60-65ºF
Once per day every day.
Gradually increase protein in pellets (35%) and quantity of pellets. Vary diet with vegetables and fruit.
65-72ºF
Once or twice per day.
Bulk of diet should be 35% protein pellets. Add fruits, vegetables, and plankton for variety.
72-80ºF
3 to 4 times per day.
High protein pellets (35% to 40%) with color enhancers. Add plankton, vegetables, fruits, and shrimp.
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For many of us, our ponds are beginning to warm (or will soon be). Water temperature, not the ambient air temperature, is the gauge for what to do and when to do it in regards to your pond. Water temperature should be checked at approximately 1 foot of depth. Avoid feeding your fish until the water temperature is consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This will also be the time to start adding spring maintenance bacteria and enzyme treatments.
Seeing a Koi that is in your care thrive and become more beautiful as it matures, is undoubtedly one of the greatest joys of Koi keeping.
