All,
Sorry if I'm bringing a subject that has already been thrashed-out/over/whatever here.
Regarding the subject, I think I know that the "general wisdome" within the koi cummuinty says that if fish are big early in life, that they will likely be bigger later in life. This applies to the "jumbo tosai" we all see in the shops - and pay more for.
But I believe I have seen (can't remember where) that some respected breeders (probably from the colder country, i.e., Niigata) have said that fish grow as big or bigger eventually if they are not forced (implying forced in warm water during times that warm water does not naturally occure) even though they grow slower. And, it is said that these "slow grown" fish are healthier in general.
I've spent that last several years trying to figure out how to keep them alive and well. I'm thinking about turning my attention to what most call "koi appreciation" (after McGill).
I know a lot of the knowledge in Japan is gained thru the school of hard knocks and is maybe not all that scientific. I still respect that and believe it's valuable.
I have found some evidence that maybe growing them slow and in colder water makes bigger fish eventually. See attached abstract.
So, without hopefully starting any flame wars, can any of you add anything, scientific or otherwise, to this topic? (or point me to the thread where it was already discussed when I wasn't here
).
All the best,
Spike Cover