Re: Freezing Temperatures in California & Elsewhere - Protecting Plants, Animals and Fish

Linda,
 
Having only just moved from a cold climate and supposedly being an expert on fish, I think I can give you a little advice about your Koi.
 
First dont panic. Koi carp actually evolved from wild carp in northern Japan in response to the ponds being covered by ice for up to 4 months. In cold weather all carp just sit on the bottom using up very little oxygen - so they should be OK.
 
For a small pond I would use a plastic childs ball rather than a log. As it blows around in the wind it tends to keep part of the surface ice-free. Also if it does freeze in it is "easy" to pull out.
 
Whatever you do, dont try and break the ice. The shock especially in a very small pond can stun and kill the fish.
 
Good luck to you and all those facing the freeze.
 
Brian in the Algarve, Portugal (today 16 / 6'C)
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: m*@ocsnet.net
To:
Sent: Friday, January 12, 2007 5:31 PM
Subject: Freezing Temperatures in California & Elsewhere - Protecting Plants, Animals and Fish

Hello all,
 
Anyone have advice on how they protect their borderline plants?  Freezing temperatures are expected in California for the next week or so.  I am covering my tender plants with sheets and blankets and wrapping my outside water spigots and insulating my well better.  I''m also keeping my cats inside at night (do anyway because of coyotes and owls).  
 
I have heard about floating a log in ponds with fish will keep it from freezing solid on top - does anyone know about this practice?  I have a sunken bathtub with some small Koi and so far they are doing well - I don't want to lose them - one has doubled his size this year from 2.5 to 5 inches. 
 
Thanks.
 
Linda Starr
Springville Lavender Gardens
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