koi fish

Koi fish, those flamboyant swimming jewels, are ornamental varieties of the common carp that have been selectively bred for their vibrant colours and patterns. They can grow up to 60 cm or more, and live for decades if you don't accidentally feed them your leftovers. Koi are cold-water fish but prefer a stable environment with a temperature between 15-25°C. They require a well-filtered pond with plenty of oxygen and space to thrive.

Prices vary widely; young koi can cost from $20, while show-quality specimens or rare patterns might set you back several thousand AUD. For buying or selling, check out Tradingpost or CarShowroom for pond supplies and koi listings. Remember, koi are not just fish, they’re a lifestyle commitment with a penchant for drama.