A Koi's metabolism functions best at temperatures above 70° F. High protein foods are difficult to digest when the water falls below 65° F.
However, Koi still need sufficient carbohydrates for energy when water temperatures are low. This is particularly true for Koi less than 1 year old.
Squash, bread, peas, citrus fruits, and watermelon are good sources of carbohydrates. Never overfeed your fish! Koi do not have a stomach. Feed smaller quantities more frequently for better nutritional absorption.
Feed only as much as the fish will eat in about 3-5 minutes. Koi pellets should be fresh and used within three months to prevent oxidation of the food.
| Water Temperature °F | Feeding Frequency | Food Type |
| Less than 50ºF. | | Temperatures at 50° F. of more than one month may require supplemental feedings of low protein and high carbohydrates. |
| 50-55ºF | 2-3 times a week if Koi are hungry. | | Temperatures at 50° F. of more than one month may require supplemental feedings of low protein and high carbohydrates. | |
| 55-59ºF | | 4-5 times per week if Koi are hungry. | | | Add low protein (25%) pellets along with vegetables. Increase quantities gradually as temperature increases. | |
| 59ºF | Once per day six days per week. | | Low protein (25%) pellets along with high carbohydrate vegetables and fruit. | |
| 60-65ºF | Once per day every day. | | Gradually increase protein in pellets (35%) and quantity of pellets. Vary diet with vegetables and fruit. | |
| 65-72ºF | Once or twice per day. |
Bulk of diet should be 35% protein pellets. Add fruits, vegetables, and plankton for variety.
|
| 72-80ºF | 3 to 4 times per day. |
High protein pellets (35% to 40%) with color enhancers. Add plankton, vegetables, fruits, and shrimp.
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The above table is opnly as a guide and all fish and ponds will vary, if you are heating your pond you can feed them all year round obtaining the best growth and protection of the koi's immune system.
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