Common Pond Fish

Goldfish
Easiest of the fish to keep, being a member of the carp family they can vary in colour from a red to very light gold. They will breed easily producing black young that may turn gold later in the right conditions. Can grow to 30cm but in normal conditions they will probably reach 20cm.

Koi
These most spectacular fish, can reach 60 cm to 90 cm (2 to 3 ft) in size and come in an array of colours and patterns. Unfortunately really only suitable for larger purpose-built ponds with a depth of at least 0.9m (3 ft).

Golden Orfe
Should not be kept in smaller ponds or where there is no pump, as they require plenty of oxygen. Orfe can grow up to 40 cm ( 18 in) and prefer to be kept in shoals. They are useful surface feeders, keeping the insect population in check. Blue Orfe are sometimes available.

Sarasa Comets
From the same family as goldfish, but have bright red patches on a white background.

Shubunkins
Similar to goldfish they come in a multitude of colours including reds, greys and blues.

Tench
Very useful bottom feeders, clearing up any uneaten food etc. Once introduced into a pond it’ s likely you will not see them often as they stay at the bottom and their olive or green/brown colour tends to blend them into the background. A golden variety is often available.