Recommended Reading

Koi Health and Disease, Erik Johnson DVM
A very good introductory to intermediate level text covering common parasites, fungal and bacterial infections, medications, and basic care. Available on this site.

Advanced Koi Care, Nick Saint-Erne DVM
An outstanding intermediate to advanced level text that includes Nishikigoi history, varieties, parasites and infections, medications and care. Available on this site.

AKCA Guide to Pond Construction, Bert Ballou, Jim and Kathleen Ferriss,
and Manuel Fontes
This is the definitive book on ponds built for Koi. Techniques covered include liner, concrete, and fiberglass construction. Mr Ballou discusses how to construct your pond so that it is self cleaning, reducing your work load and eliminating the need for a cleaning contract with a watergarden construction contractor. Available from the AKCA website.

Basic Koi Ponds, Filters and Water
This is a collection of articles from Koi USA magazine covering a wide variety of topics. Available from the AKCA website.

AKCA Guide to Filters and Pre-Filters
A complete discussion of currently available commercial and DIY filter systems and bioreactors. Available from the AKCA website.

Judging and Buying Koi
Another collection of articles From Koi USA that covers varieties and what to look for in quality koi. Available from the AKCA website.

Kokugyo volumes 1 and 2, Mamoru Kodama
In depth study of Nishikigoi varieties and development.

Koi 1 and 2
Everything from Japanese breeders to varieties origins, bloodlines and development.
Available on this site.


Koi USA Magazine
Published by The Associated Koi Clubs of America for over 30 years. This is the source for articles written advanced level hobbiest and world renowned breeders and show judges.

Koi Nations
A fairly new publication that is done very well. The publisher has put together a very impressive list of contributers including high end breeders and retailers, engineers responsible for the design of current filter systems, nutritionist, and veterinarians.