[Masskoi]

Hello,

I'm new to the group and to koi breeding with (many) questions. I would like to begin breeding koi as a family activity, but in a professional manner that will gradually allow us to improve the quality (and cost) of our breeding stock and produce quality fry for our pond and possibly others.

I'm only in the planning stage, so my questions are quite general. Living in Massachusetts where winters are long, and in the woods where the predators are numerous, I'm thinking of building a greenhouse-type space in which to conduct the breeding.

My questions are:

1. What is the best tank setup for breeding a single pair? By this I mean, how large should the mating tank be? How large must the tanks be for returning the male and female to their respective holding tanks? How large a tank(s) is ideal for the fry, assuming rigorous culling (to say 500 fish).

2. Is it possible to artificially influence the breeding cycle with temperature and/or light? If I had several mating pairs and controlled the environment to match the temp and light cycle of early summer, could I breed in fall and winter also?

3. I've read about the use of mud ponds for the best quality fish culled. What advantage does this have (besides aesthetic!).

4. Finally, I've found a mish-mash of suppliers on the web, but would greatly appreciate any information people may have on high-quality stock and supply dealers. Not trying to inject commercialism into this nice board, but to a novice this is very helpful info. Similarly, links to scientific papers and other quality breeding advice would be invaluable!

Thank you very much for any and all comments. It is wonderful to have found a board full of such knowledge!

Best to all,
Brent