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Koi Seminar for Beginners - Held by Malcolm | |
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Koi Handling Malcolm, with the help of members, used his large drag net to bring the koi in closer for inspection Once the koi were within reach he demonstrated the best way of leading a koi into the hand net. The koi was then transferred from the hand net via the sock, as seen in photograph below, to a large bowl of water. Once the koi were in the bowl Malcolm discussed the correct method of holding the koi for the purpose of either injecting the fish or for taking a scrape.
Moving Malcolm used a sock for moving the koi from the hand net in the pond to a bowl on the ground, keeping the sock rigid all the time. Malcolm argues that using a sock for moving koi, is by far the safest method. He demonstrates by holding the sock rigid. Once the koi is in the poly bag he suggests we take this opportunity to inspect the fish for any damage.
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Peter holds the koi whilst Malcolm shows the best method of taking a scrape using a wooden ice cream stick Bagging Malcolm discussed the safest method of bagging koi for transporting. Good quality bags are a must and it is advisable to use the right bag for the size of fish. Long and narrow. Remember to save the bags. Sterilise and RINSE them after. We were advised not to place too much water in the bag. Oxygen is important. Use double bags if possible. Put the pond water in the first bag before dropping in to second bag. Use elastic bands to secure. Malcolm showed the correct way to attach the elastic bands. Malcolm is the first to admit that he has made mistakes in the past and has since learnt from them Transporting in Vehicle - Stress Free Place the cardboard box containing the bagged fish nose to tail across the width of the car. If travelling long distance or to a show then starve the koi to keep ammonia levels down. Ensure that the box does not let in any light, keep cool and quiet if possible. On returning from the show, if this is to take about an hour, then it is advisable to add salt to the water.
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