Butterfly Koi (Assorted Colours) - Cyprinus Carpio

Grace and Colour on a Grand Scale

The Butterfly Koi is the most elegant variety of koi available, distinguished by its dramatically elongated fins that flow and trail through the water like ribbons in the wind. Where traditional koi impress with colour alone, the Butterfly Koi adds movement and grace — a living centrepiece for any garden pond.

Originally developed in Indonesia from a cross between long-finned carp and traditional Japanese koi, Butterfly Koi are available in a huge range of colours and patterns. No two fish are alike, making each one a truly individual addition to your pond.

A Long-Term Companion

These are not fish you keep for a season — with proper care, Butterfly Koi can live for 25–35 years, growing alongside you and your garden. They are peaceful, sociable fish that quickly learn to recognise their keepers and will often feed directly from the hand.

Care at a Glance

• Minimum pond size: 4,500 litres (1,000 gallons) for a small group
• Allow at least 1,000 litres per additional fish
• Minimum pond depth: 90–100 cm (3 feet) — essential for overwintering safely
• Temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F)
• pH: 7.5–7.8
• Adult size: up to 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) depending on conditions
• Lifespan: 25–35 years with good care
• Social fish — best kept in groups of 5 or more

Pond Setup

Strong filtration is essential — koi are large, heavy-feeding fish that produce significant waste. A good pond filter, regular water testing, and adequate aeration will keep your water quality stable and your fish healthy. Partial shade is ideal, as too much direct sunlight can cause algae problems and overheat the water.

Feeding

Omnivorous and enthusiastic feeders. A high-quality specialist koi pellet forms the ideal staple diet. Switch to a wheat germ-based food in cooler months when water temperatures drop below 10°C, as it is easier to digest. Reduce feeding significantly in winter as their metabolism slows.

Compatible With

• Other koi and goldfish varieties
• Rudd, roach, and similar peaceful pond fish
• Avoid keeping with sturgeon, which can disturb koi during winter dormancy