The Koi are considered as one of the most beautiful and colorful pets that owners can have in their outdoor ponds, but keeping them in good health requires the basic knowledge about the fish itself and outdoor ponds, plus a few important supplies.

First, you need to have a filter that'll maintain the quality of the water in your pond. There are two types of filters, the biological and the mechanical ones. The filter's function is to remove the unwanted pollutants, decreasing the illnesses and diseases that may affect your fish.

Now, the only way for the filtration system to work in processing the water is when the water will move, that's why a pump is needed (another important factor that'll promote your pond's health). Although you can have a waterfall or fountain in the pond to aid water movement, they shouldn't replace completely the pump, because they don't have enough strength to help with the filtration of the pond.

The great thing about having a fountain in your pond is that it will give you feeling of tranquility, drowning those unwanted noise, stir the water and give oxygen to your pond.

Other pond supplies, although they're not needed on a daily basis, should still be kept available when the need for it arises. The dechlorinator is used to replenish the water level of your outdoor pond with tap water (but there's still a need for you to eliminate those harmful chemicals of the tap water first).

With the use of test kits available in local pet stores, the pH and nitrate levels of the water should be checked weekly. Baking soda and pond salt can be added to the water to regulate the nitrate and pH levels of the water when the test will show that the levels of chemicals are off.

The most important supply for your pets is food. Even though they tend to eat a wide variety of natural food, it's still important to keep a basic source of food ready all the time. The Koi has the ability to eat out of their owner's hand, so various snacks and treats can be offered to your them.

Also, you should look out for those predators. These are badgers, raccoons, herons, cats, kingfishers and foxes. A good pond design can keep them in safety. Ponds should be deep enough in order to prevent attacks from herons. You can also construct overhangs in the side of your pond to prevent the predators from reaching the water.

You can also place the pond under a tree, covering it from the aerial view of birds. Nets can be placed entirely over your pond, which works as a protection from predators and prevents debris like leaves from falling into the pond (which would really mess up your pond if left to fall).

Your fish requires a little bit of effort from your part as the owner as you take care of them when you set up your own pond and taking into consideration all of the things you'll need for it. But these are truly magnificent pets that are really worth your effort!