Amongst all the kinds of ponds, water-lily, reflecting, chlorine-poisoned, "English", et al. there are none as industrious or popular as variants of "Japanese" koi ponds; to raise, keep, grow and show these "ornamental carp". Hence a treatment on how to go about selecting stock is warranted; in fact, much of what is offered here applies to all livestock, animal and plant.

There are several factors, relative and absolute, to consider when selecting nishikigoi (Japanese ornamental carp, koi). Categories of health, variety, quality, and cost-reasonableness are some of the more important. This article describes my opinions concerning what merits value in nishikigoi in general, and how to apply such knowledge to acquiring livestock.

Health:
First and foremost to consideration of whether to purchase is the physical well-being of the individual/s in mind. Check the stock for signs of infectious and parasitic disease. Holes, missing or poorly replaced scales, bent fin rays and curvatures of the spine, anomalies of the eyes call for disregarding the specimen.

Observe the Fish in Question Carefully!
The new fish may result in the loss of other livestock. Ask about the fish's background. How long have the people had it? Was it dipped, quarantined, otherwise treated on arrival? What about the other fish in the system; how do they look? Pro ...

Continue to read all article at : http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/ponds/Fenner_Koi_Selection.html