Fathead Minnows
A fathead minnow is a small fish ranging between two and three inches in length. Its golden, strain, known as the rosy-red minnow, is very popular in fish ponds across the United States and Canada. These fish are quite small, generally ranging between two and three inches in length. The fathead minnow’s tolerance for a wide variety of environmental conditions and general hardiness contribute to their widespread distribution. Fathead minnows are generally tolerant of turbid, low-oxygen water and are commonly found in small lakes, ponds, and wetlands across the country. Fathead minnows rarely fall ill and have a lifespan of approximately two years.
Goldfish
Goldfish are a relatively small member of the carp family. Native to East Asia, this species was selectively bred in Ancient China over a thousand years ago. Several distinct breeds have since been developed. Varying greatly in size, shape, fin configuration, and coloration, goldfish are popular fish pond additions thanks to their vivid colors and hardiness. Goldfish are generally small and inexpensive, and can even survive for brief periods if ice forms on the surface on your pond. The common goldfish can be kept safely in a pond year-round in temperate climates.
Golden Tench
The golden tench is an artificially bred variety of tench that is a particularly popular ornamental variety for fish ponds. This form of tench varies in color from pale gold to dark red, and some feature black or red spots on the flanks and fins. Tench are popular bottom feeders that help keep your pond’s waterways healthy and clean. In fact, they are often referred to as doctor fish, since it is claimed that this fish’s presence in your pond protects other species from falling ill.
Koi Carps
Koi are arguably the most iconic species of fish utilized in ponds across the world. Known best for their beauty, koi varieties are determined by coloration, patterning, and scalation. Their wide array of colors and substantial length (averaging to up to three and a half feet) make them enjoyable additions to any fish pond. Major colors include white, black, red, yellow, blue, orange, and cream. Like other types of carp, koi are famous for their ability to survive and adapt to a variety of climates and water conditions. This has allowed the domesticated species to thrive in locations around the world, including the United States and Japan.
Sturgeons
Sturgeons are ideal for pond owners who enjoy fishing in their spare time. This species grows quickly, so ensure that your pond is over 1,000 gallons (4,5000 liters) if you wish to incorporate surgeon into your pond. Sturgeons mix well with other fish and enjoy exploring the edges of a pond at dusk and dawn. They tolerate cold extremely well and require less feeding during the winter. This species is carnivorous, and will only eat meat, leaving your algae and plants for the other fish in your pond.
