Denise Winslow's blog

For those of us who are koi hobbyist, we have a great appreciation for the intelligence of our fish. Scientists, now studying more of the aquatic world and are researching the powers and intelligence of our finned friends. Another review of a study regarding the memory of fish. 
 
"It is popularly believed that fish have a memory span of only 30 seconds. Canadian scientists, however, have demonstrated that this is far from true -- in fact, fish can remember context and associations up to twelve days later."
 

A reminder that koi can live quite a bit of time out of water. I had an unfortunate situation when a young koi leapt from the pond, and in the morning finding it unresponsive (and presumed dead), I placed back in water and gently massaged and moved in the water to reintroduce water running through the mouth. I still have this koi, called Phantom, in my pond today. 
 

For our more scientific readers, a study on long fins and how they were passed from one generation to another. Included is just a bit of history of the developement of the butterfly koi.  
 

Our hobby of koi keeping began several centuries ago in Japan, and in this country, there is a different way of looking at the evolving seasons. I would like to share this beautiful video with you that depicts the 72 micro-seasons as defined by the early Japanese culture.  The video is slightly over 4 minutes and very worth your time.  It invites you slow down and watch nature; please enjoy these few minutes away from the rush of your day. 
 

I think my pond and koi could use a few more of this type of bacteria! A very interesting study, enjoy. 
 

This fish, that soon was know as Carrot, was put in this Fishery in France 20 years ago. 
 
The article states "The fish is a hybrid species of a leather carp and a koi carp, which are traditionally orange. It's believed to be the second largest of its type caught.
 
"The angler posed for a snap with his catch before releasing it safe and well back into the lake. He celebrated with a cup of tea afterwards.
 

Another loss of habitat for a branch of the carp family. This short article shares a bit about lost carp species and the people who depended on them for food. 
 
"Just two species of the freshwater fish still exist in the ancient waters of Lake Lanao in the Philippines after predatory fish were accidentally introduced
 

I absolutely love this big bear cooling down in this pond, until....... Enjoy this very short video and find someone to share it with. It will have you laughing. 
 
"This is a story of a black bear who got into a backyard fishpond to cool off from the summer heat until the resident koi carp scared it away.
The bear entered the pond in the Massachusetts town of Pepperell, panting heavily as it soaked its fur into the water and quenched its thirst as koi carp darted around it.

Wanting to add some flowering plants to your pond; here is a guide to help you. 
 

Okay, besides being a bit on the wacky side, I consider this animal abuse! However, apparently they take good care of their finned friends. 
 
"Two performers said that stunt is not for the faint-hearted"
"It is a fishy act that could take your breath away - or more likely that of its underwater performers.
Two “aquamen” amazed crowds gathered in Saint-Malo in Brittany by strolling around with fishbowls on their heads filled with water and goldfish. They breathe through a special valve."