Butterfly Koi Premium Grade (Cyprinus rubrofuscus)

The Butterfly Koi (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) is the long-finned, flowing-tailed cousin of the classic koi, prized for the graceful fins that trail behind it like ribbons as it swims. These are premium-grade, hand-selected fish with strong color and finnage. Currently sized at about 3 to 4 inches, they will grow into impressive pond centerpieces over the years.

Browse the rest of our freshwater livestock to stock your pond or water garden.

Care Guide

• Plan for a pond. Koi grow large, often 18 to 24 inches or more, and are long-lived. They need a pond or a very large system with strong filtration. They are not a long-term fit for a standard aquarium.
• Hardy in the cold. Koi are coldwater fish that tolerate a wide temperature range and can overwinter outdoors in many climates as long as the water does not freeze solid.
• Water parameters: Temperature 35 to 85°F, pH 7.0 to 8.5. They are very adaptable but appreciate stable, well-filtered, well-oxygenated water.
• Keep a group. Koi are social and do best with other koi or pond-hardy fish. Give them open swimming space and plenty of volume to spread out.
• Feeding: Omnivores with hearty appetites. Feed a quality koi or pond pellet, and feed less as water cools since their metabolism slows in cold weather.

Specifications

Compatibility

Butterfly koi are gentle giants that mix well with other koi and pond-hardy fish. Keep them with similarly sized, peaceful companions and avoid tiny fish that could be mistaken for food as the koi grow. Good pond mates include:

• Shubunkin Goldfish and other single-tail pond goldfish
• Other koi and butterfly koi

Recommended Foods & Supplies

• Fishers Koi Diet+ Pond Pellets for daily feeding and color
• FritzPond Clarifier to keep pond water clear
• Strong mechanical and biological pond filtration with good aeration

Frequently Asked Questions

How big will my koi get?
Koi commonly reach 18 to 24 inches and can grow larger over many years. Plan for their adult size from the start with a pond or large system.

Can I keep koi in an aquarium?
Only temporarily while they are small. Koi quickly outgrow aquariums and need a pond for long-term health and proper growth.

Are butterfly koi hardy?
Yes. They are tough, coldwater fish that handle a wide temperature range and can overwinter outdoors in many regions when the pond does not freeze through.

What makes them "butterfly" koi?
Butterfly koi carry a long-fin gene that gives them flowing fins and tails, a more elegant look than standard koi while sharing the same care needs.