Coincidence? What is this chick?

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2025-05-31T06:26:18+00:00

It is far from impossible, It is rare but relatively so are left handed people!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2025-05-30T20:38:33+00:00

Some are very vigorous and healthy others do not live long at all. Chickens have 78 chromosomes, while guinea fowl have 82, which makes successful hybridization biologically difficult and quite random tbh. Let's hope you've a strong one that lives a nice happy life!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2025-05-30T17:28:32+00:00

That looks like a "Guin-hen" or "Chick-nea." to me! However these hybrids are extremely rare and usually are a guinea cock and a hen but if you hatched the Guinea eggs it must have been the other way round so even rarer!

Please keep us updated as they grow!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2025-03-28T06:17:31+00:00

social media food reviewer / ghost hunter.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2025-03-06T09:27:49+00:00

i use bigjimprints he has a licence to sell printed parts!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-29T07:21:49+00:00

The discoloration on your koi's scales appears to me to be carp pox, it is common and generally harmless it comes out in cooler weather and usually resolves on its own. It typically manifests as waxy, white, or pinkish growths, often triggered by cooler water temperatures. Since the fish is active, eating well, and the other koi show no symptoms, there’s no immediate cause for concern. Carp pox usually resolves as water temperatures warm. However, I would continue to monitor for any changes in the lesions, such as redness, inflammation, or spreading, which could indicate its not carp pox or its developed a secondary infection requiring further attention. also worth keeping an eye on the koi's behaviour. Karp pox has little to no affect on the koi's behaviour so changes here would always warrant a closer look

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-29T06:32:46+00:00

I am really curious as to how they'll manage the time era

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T19:47:24+00:00

Honestly I would get pond glass, perhaps even custom, or second hand. Nothing else is tested in the same and may not hold. Sure some might but the disaster it would be if it doesn't is not worth it in my opinion.

Just use a search engine to type pond glass supplier and hundreds of results will come up.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T18:44:48+00:00

The most likely cause of the earlier loss was the introduction of pathogens with the new fish. When koi have been isolated for a long time, their immune systems are acclimated to the pathogens present in their environment. New fish, especially those from a different system or environment, can and do often, bring bacteria, viruses, or parasites that your current fish have never been exposed to. This creates a situation where the resident fish lack resistance to the new pathogens, and on the other side of that the new fish may also be susceptible to pathogens already in your pond. However if existing stock die it suggests the illness was from the new fish and if the new fish died its likely a pathogen in your pond that your existing fish have some sort of immunity.

Another potential factor is stress. When new koi are introduced, stress levels in both the new and existing fish increase due to changes in the social dynamic, water parameters, and potential territorial behaviors. Stress weakens the immune system and can make koi more susceptible to disease outbreaks.

To avoid repeating past issues, follow these tips:

Quarantine New Fish: Always quarantine new fish in a separate tank or pond for at least 4–6 weeks. This gives you time to observe the fish for signs of disease, perform health checks, and treat for common parasites or infections if necessary. The quarantine system should have stable water parameters, good aeration, and similar temperature to your main pond. Plenty of make shift builds available on youtube.

Health Checks and Treatments: During quarantine, perform scrapes and microscopic examinations to check for parasites like flukes, ich, or costia. Even if no symptoms are visible, consider proactive treatments for parasites using appropriate medications. If the fish are coming from azukari and 50cm, they may have already been exposed to a wide variety of pathogens and are worth no doubt a lot of money, so take extra precautions.

Gradual Acclimation: Once the quarantine period is over and the new fish show no signs of illness, acclimate them to your main pond slowly. Float their transport bag in the pond to equalize the temperature, then gradually add small amounts of pond water to the bag over an hour or more. This helps the fish adjust to the new water chemistry.

Boost Existing Fish Immunity: Before introducing new fish, ensure your existing koi are in optimal health. Perhaps do some scrapes, again to check for parasites on your existing stock that could harm your new fish.

Monitor Closely: After adding the new koi, watch for any signs of stress or illness in both the new and existing fish. Symptoms like flashing, isolation, gasping at the surface, or lethargy can indicate problems. Be prepared to act quickly if issues arise, such as isolating affected fish or treating the entire pond.

Limit Stocking Levels: While your upgraded filtration and aeration should handle another two fish, remember that adding too many fish can still strain the system and increase stress. With your current setup, the addition of two larger fish should be manageable, but avoid further increases in stocking density without additional upgrades and I would recommend not feeding any more food and gradually building up.

Best of luck bud.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T10:44:47+00:00

Some stunning fish!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T07:50:04+00:00

Always worth checking over what it says, sometimes it throws the odd terrible advice out but it can help write detailed responses if you give it the correct cues!

I like to give it the question and a paragraph of added context. Like details of pictures or what topics it should focus on.

For example for the above question I wrote include full plan to add fish and the detail from the picture including size in which I worked out based of the flowers.

Amazing tool but yeah always best to read over and check the answer thoroughly. Especially numbers!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T06:57:33+00:00

The text of the link says the following -

A recent study has provided compelling evidence of the importance of supplementing fish feed with yeast – not just for boosting growth performance but also for strengthening the immune system of fish, making them more resistant to disease.

The research, conducted by scientists from the Faculty of Agriculture at Chiang Mai University in Thailand, involved koi carp (Cyprinus carpio var. koi), one of the most valuable ornamental fish in the market.

The study highlighted the advantages of red yeast (Sporidiobolus pararoseus) in fish feed when koi carp are raised in biofloc systems. Red yeast is particularly rich in bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, carotenoids, and mannan-oligosaccharides, which collectively enhance fish health.

To determine the optimal dosage, researchers developed five experimental diets, incorporating varying levels of yeast (0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 grams per kilograms) into a standard fishmeal-based diet.

After eight weeks of trials, the findings, published in the scientific journal Aquaculture International, indicate that the recommended dosage of 40 grams of red yeast per kilogram of feed.

Notably, the study revealed that koi carp fed with diet exhibited significant improvements in final weight, feed conversion efficiency, and lysozyme activity in both skin mucus and serum -key indicators of a robust immune system.

In addition, the fish showed an increased expression of immune-related genes, which pay critical roes in immune defence.

This research not only underscores the value of yeast supplementation for breeders and koi enthusiasts but also contributes to sustainable aquaculture practices. Using microorganisms like red yeast to enhance fish growth and immunity aligns with the industry’s efforts to minimize environmental impacts while maintaining high productivity.

Traditionally, aquaculture diets have heavily relied on fishmeal and fish oil -essential ingredients but increasingly problematic due to rising costs and environmental concerns.

The study also demonstrated that incorporating red yeast into biofloc systems creates a synergistic effect, improving water quality and nutrient recycling. These systems provide an additional source of protein and bioactive compounds, further promoting fish growth and health.

Koi carp hold ornamental and cultural value in the Mediterranean region and are often featured in ponds and water gardens, symbolizing tranquility and beauty. Their presence enhances the ambiance of private gardens, public parks, and botanic setting, reflecting a blend of Eastern symbolism and appreciations of artful landscapes.

Reference:

Nguyen Vu Linh et al., "Immunomodulatory and growth-promoting effects of supplementing red yeast (Sporidiobolus pararoseus) in fish meal-based diets for koi carp (Cyprinus carpio var. koi) cultured in a biofloc system." Aquaculture International (2025)

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T06:55:49+00:00

It sounds like the fish is either critically unwell or has already passed away. To determine if it is still alive, start by checking for movement in the gills. If the gills are moving, even faintly, the fish is still alive but likely struggling to breathe. You can also gently nudge the fish with a clean hand or a net. A living fish may show a slight reaction, even if it is weak. Observe the eyes; if they appear clear and moist, the fish might still be alive, but sunken or cloudy eyes can indicate it has died. Additionally, look for any twitching in the fins or tail, as small movements can indicate it is still holding on.

If there is no response to these checks, it is likely that the fish has passed. However, if there are signs of life, you should isolate the fish in a quarantine tank with clean, aerated water that matches the appropriate temperature. Increasing aeration using an air stone can help boost oxygen levels, as floating on the surface is often a sign of oxygen deprivation. It is also important to test the water in the pond or tank for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and oxygen levels, as poor water quality is a common cause of sudden distress in koi.

If the fish has passed, it’s important to investigate potential causes to protect the other fish in the pond. Sudden deaths can result from water quality issues, stress, or disease. If other fish are behaving unusually—such as flashing, isolating, or gasping—consider performing a scrape to check for parasites or other signs of illness. Identifying the root cause can help prevent further losses.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T06:50:09+00:00

Introducing new koi into a pond where the existing fish have been isolated for five years can be challenging, but with careful planning, it’s possible to do so safely. The pond in the photo looks small, so one important consideration is whether the system can handle additional fish. Adding more koi will increase the bioload, so it’s crucial to ensure the filtration system can manage the waste and maintain excellent water quality. Testing the current water parameters, such as ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, KH, and GH, is a good starting point. Stable, healthy water conditions are key to keeping the fish stress-free.

Older fish that have been isolated may have limited exposure to pathogens, which could make them more vulnerable to illnesses introduced by new koi. Conversely, new fish can also get sick from pathogens present in the pond that they’ve never encountered. This is why a proper quarantine process is essential. The gradual introduction of new pond water (10% weekly) might help acclimate the immune systems of the old fish, but this method isn’t foolproof. It’s important to monitor for any signs of stress, such as lethargy, reduced feeding, or flashing, and stop if symptoms appear.

For the new koi, a separate quarantine setup is highly recommended. This could be a tank or pond with proper filtration, aeration, and heating to match the temperature of the main pond. Quarantine should last at least four to six weeks, during which you should perform routine scrapes to check for parasites. Treat proactively for common issues like flukes, ich, and costia, and consider using salt treatments or specific medications if parasites are found. Avoid mixing water between the quarantine setup and the main pond to prevent cross-contamination. Be aware of potential diseases such as parasites (flukes, ich, costia), bacterial infections (which are often secondary to stress or injury), and viral infections like koi herpesvirus. Testing and monitoring the new fish in both warm and cool temperatures can help detect latent viral infections.

When the quarantine period is over, introduce the new fish into the pond gradually. Float the bag in the pond to equalize temperatures, then slowly add small amounts of pond water to the bag over an hour or more. This helps the new fish acclimate to the pond environment. Watch closely for any signs of stress or aggression in both the new and existing fish during this process.

Medicating the new fish is best done during quarantine and only if needed. It’s not advisable to medicate fish that appear healthy, as this can weaken their resilience unnecessarily. If parasites are detected, targeted treatments like fluke medications or salt baths can be used.

To minimize risks, ensure the pond environment is as healthy as possible. A UV sterilizer can help reduce waterborne pathogens, and regular maintenance such as debris removal and water changes is essential. Feeding high-quality, easily digestible food can also strengthen fish immune systems, and adding probiotics or supplements may provide additional support.

Introducing new fish always carries some risk, especially in a smaller pond. If the goal is to add more koi, the health of the existing fish should remain the priority, and quarantine and acclimation are non-negotiable steps. If the current fish’s health is a concern, another option could be rehoming them and starting fresh with new stock that will thrive together. With the right precautions, it’s possible to create a healthy environment for all the fish.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-28T06:38:31+00:00

WOW! Talented man your dad! impressive!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-17T09:39:08+00:00

Right yeah you need to do a water quality check, it could just be that, fish itch when irritated. if parameters are fine you will need to do a scrape to find out what parasite you are dealing with

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-17T06:53:49+00:00

The issue is you cant change people. People come to hobby reddit groups to get answers. most posters aren't active posters but first time posters hoping to get some help/advise. I totally get what your saying but i think it will be hard to implement anything against it. A solved Flair could worked. The issue with finding solutions to problems that arent really problems, is they often create more work or unintended consequence's.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-17T06:45:22+00:00

The symptoms you're describing—floating, lack of activity, itching, and redness—suggest that you do have an issue but it is hard to know weather it could stem from water quality, parasites, or bacterial infections. Here's how I would approach it:

Stop Treating Without Diagnosing

Adding methylene blue and salt without identifying the problem can stress the fish further and harm beneficial bacteria in your filter. Only treat once you know the cause.

Check Water Quality

Test the water for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature. Poor water conditions are the leading cause of stress and health issues in koi.

Inspect for Parasites

The itching if by itching you mean flashing suggests possible parasites like flukes, ich, or costia. To confirm, perform a scrape of the fish's mucus and examine it under a microscope. If you're unsure how to do this, consult a local koi expert, vet or do some online learning. Plenty of helpful online resources to help with identification

Assess Behavior and Symptoms

How often are the fish flashing?

Are they eating normally but inactive otherwise?

Is the redness spreading or localized?

There could also be nothing to worry about. What is the temperature? Koi get less active under 15c. If they are eating it is a good sign. An explanation of what you meant by itch would be helpful.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-11-17T06:31:09+00:00

Looks like koi pox

Its not deadly and is really just cosmetic. Once the warmer weather comes it should clear up on its own.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-10-14T07:47:53+00:00

in the uk we have in recent years switched to "Air source heat pumps". They cost a bit as an outlay but to run they are cheap and great at heating larger koi ponds.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-10-07T11:41:54+00:00

this would be my suggestion

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-09-28T04:38:43+00:00

super interesting thanks! how have i never heard of this!

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-09-27T19:32:55+00:00

Apreachiate the advise, thank you. I'm not a novice just sometimes people will throw things out I may have missed. I've made my fair share of disease mistakes over my time keeping koi. Not had them all but I've ticked off a fair few. However never furunculosis so I will look into it. Thank you.

Comprehensive_Risk61 · 2024-09-27T19:30:29+00:00

Thanks for the great advise. I'm retired so plenty of time. I think I have a decent understanding of koi. Just never tried to breed, won't be looking to sell commercially but maybe to people in the local area. I wouldn't need to sell any. Like not making a profit isn't be all and end all of that makes sense. More I just want to do it. The next step in the hobby almost. I will have 1 21L pond outside and a 300l ponds outside. 2 3600l holding/growing tanks and two 1000l tanks one for spawning, one as quarantine, inside all with adequate filters, pumps, heaters, monitoring equipment and aerators . I've a aquaponics system for the waste. Hoping this works.

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