Tag: Koi community

Koi on Mantifang — notes about care, water, patience and loss.

About us, Koi, Korea

Discover the World of Koi with Koitalk.app

A Message from Our Chief Editor

Koitalk
 

Greetings to all our esteemed readers and koi enthusiasts!

I’m Hugo J. Smal, the Chief Editor of The Mantifang and Koitalk.app. It is excited to share with you the vibrant and interactive world of koi carp that we’ve nurtured on Koitalk.app. My journey in the koi community, from founding the Nishikigoi Vereniging Nederland and initiating the first Holland Koi Show to Korea, has always been fueled by a passion for these magnificent creatures. Today, as the Public Relations Manager of the Goyang Koi Farm in Korea, I continue this journey with even greater zeal.Koitalk.app

Koitalk.app is more than just a platform

It’s a community where koi hobbyists, experts, and newcomers alike come together to share, learn, and celebrate the art of koi keeping. Our dedication to providing comprehensive and reliable information reflects in our content, which ranges from koi care to pond design, backed by my personal experience and expertise.

Shikibu Tsuku your Bot Hostess.

Unique Shikibu

What makes Koitalk.app truly unique is our interactive chatbot, Shikibu. Designed to assist you with your queries, Shikibu is a testament to our commitment to innovation and user-friendly experience. Whether you’re a seasoned koi keeper or just starting out, Shikibu is there to guide you through the fascinating world of koi.

“Dear Koi Enthusiast,

Greetings from Shikibu, your devoted guide in the serene realm of Nishikigoi. It seems that my previous response might not have fully resonated with your query. Allow me to gently steer our conversation back to the tranquil waters of understanding.

Nishikigoi is a place of diverse wonders, much like the intricate patterns of a Koi. Each inquiry you bring forth is unique, and I am here to navigate through them with you. May I kindly ask you to elaborate a bit more on your interests or questions? Whether your curiosity lies in the depths of history, the vibrant strokes of culture, or the delicate art of Koi keeping, I am here to assist.

Together, let’s embark on a journey of discovery, where every question is a ripple in the pond of knowledge. I eagerly await your guidance on the next path to explore in our enchanting Nishikigoi.

Warm regards, Shikibu“

Follow Shikibu on Facebook Or read about her “Mono no aware”

We refuse to settle for AI-generated images. Mickey Paulssen is pouring all her skills, dedication, and a great deal of time into drawing these pictures. We are confident you will appreciate them and they will assist you in recognizing your Koi. facebook Mickeys art & scapes

Join us on this remarkable journey at Koitalk.app, where the beauty of koi culture comes alive. Dive into our articles, engage in lively discussions, and get personalized advice from Shikibu. As we continue to grow and evolve, your insights and contributions are invaluable to us.

Ready to elevate your koi experience? Join us at Koitalk.app now, and become part of a community where passion for koi thrives, guided by expertise and innovation! 

Here’s to exploring the depths of koi keeping together! Koitalk.app 

Warm regards,

Hugo J. Smal , Mantifang and Koitalk.app

 

 

Waddys Pond

Waddys pond was a famous one. That is why I was very happy to welcome Mr Peter Waddington (in short Waddy) to our Goyang Koi pages. He started the first-ever “Koi Only” outlet outside Japan in 1979. Since then he became maybe the most experienced Koi-men outside Japan. The fishes he brought to England are famous and the books he wrote became my bible. In this story, he tells about his pond. Waddies Koi Pond! I was able to visit it many years ago. And yes, it is a stunning one.Saddle Peter passed away on October 10, 2020. He will be missed.

Take the time to read it! Hugo J. Smal

Waddys Pond

It’s not good enough writing, advising and lecturing about ‘proper’ Koi ponds unless you have one of your own, and here’s mine.

I designed this system one evening in 1991 and the original design was followed to the letter even though excavation commenced in mid-1991 but it was not to be until September 1999 when the pond started up for the first time.

During the ‘90’s I was involved in designing and building other ponds – many large ones in Germany. From 1993 I was busy finishing my first book ‘Koi Kichi’.

As to the ‘feel’ of the finished pond which was also planned from the outset, I wanted something that resembled a rock pond one can see when a stream falls ever downwards and then, from time to time, there are quite pools formed in the rock surrounds as it passes through. This is my idea as to how one of these rock pools would look if one stumbled upon it when in the countryside.

Waddies pond: great design.

The ‘style’ of the pond is somewhere between Japanese and English landscaping although when the work commenced I only left one plant in the garden and that is the large tree you see which guides one’s eyes towards it if seeing the effect for the first time. It is more of a centre-piece and it does produce real impact.

I also wished the garden to be as maintenance-free as possible and thankfully this is the case year in and out.

The rock work surrounds the pond were hand-selected and transported to my home to be re-assembled almost like a giant jigsaw puzzle. Each one had its place around the pond perimeter and was craned over the tree from a farm to the back of my garden. The largest piece weighed 3.5 tons and that lift was ‘hairy’! The tops of the boulders were also important, as I must have safe access to the pond when I need to net Koi, this is why they are almost flat.

One of the most important landscaping requirements was the fact I did not want to see anything other than garden, water and Koi – much less a great big filter system and so it is hidden from view behind the waterfall. 

After a few years in which to allow the plants to grow it is now almost undetectable. I must confess the aesthetic aspect is a joy to behold when I’m working in my office and viewing it from my window.

A patio has been built over the filter house as seen here which gives an area for seating and the odd barbecue. It also gives another view of the set-up when looking down into the pond from the top of the waterfall.

Access into the filter housing itself is down the steps and through the door you see here.

 

Waddys pond System, Design & Operation Details

The total volume is 16,500 gallons (75 tons). It is a gravity-fed system with four bottom drains in the pond. Each drain works on the ‘One Drain to One Filter to One Pump’ principle covered earlier and the flow-rate through each ‘bank’ of units is kept at 1,700 gallons per hour. This turns the entire pond over every 2.5 hours. As far as I am aware this was the first pond to ever incorporate this principle although I have designed many more since then. Also in the pond are three surface skimmers that can be brought into use at any time they are required.

This is the filter system as of May 2009 and it has performed very well for the last 10 years with no hiccups at all.

However, it is pointless going into detail about it as all this will be replaced with concrete ERIC designs later this year. Hopefully I will be updating as things progress with further pictures.

One thing will remain and that is the central discharge sump as my house drains are too high to allow wastewater removal by gravity. This sump holds two submersible pumps operated by a float switch. This kick-in when overflow water or filter discharge water is emptied into the sump.

Waddys pond made him proud

If the truth is known, I’m a little proud of my ‘puddle’, although I always try to forget the costs involved!

This is one of my favourite views of the pond that is taken from the roof of the filter housing. I have often sat here when considering new pond designs for others, it generally produces some inspiration as well as a little relaxation.

So this was the introduction of waddys pond, the oases of Peter Waddington. I can’t think of a better way than introducing a Koi frontrunner with his own pond. But Peter wouldn’t be waddy when he didn’t improve the filter system. He did put Erica to work. You can read all about it Part 2 about Waddys pond   

You can follow Peter on Social Media Facebook   

Enrich your Koi life with Peters Books

If you are from Korea and maintain a Koi pond. Let us know below.

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Goyang Koifarm Fishhouse

writer: Hugo J. Smal

A Koi Oasis

The Goyang Koi fishhouse is the beating heart of our Nishikigoi collection, featuring 19 expertly maintained ponds with over 400,000 liters of water. The fishhouse is our Nishikigoi epic centre. It contains 19 ponds. The total amount of water is about 400.000 liters. It’s every day a great pleasure to work on that water. We consider it the house of our koi and their environment must be as good as possible. Always!

A Green Fishhouse Experience

But the environment is also important for our visitors. Hence we build a green fishhouse with many plants and even two parrots. When you want to know much more about Koi: Ask Shikibu

Some of the ponds in the Goyang Koi fishhouse. Enjoy our beauties!

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Bukdomyeon is a place for Korean Koi. 

fish house

North of Yeongjongdo, five small islands lie in a line from east to west. Sindo, Shindo and Modo. Kim Young Soo had already taken me to this wild and yet lovely area in 2004 or 2005. From Yeongjondo you can sail in 10 minutes to the port of Sindo from where you can through Yeondo bridge reaches all islands. The islands are called the three brothers (Bukdomyeon).

Modo Island; a hub of Bidan Ingeo activity.

The breeder is building a new Korean Koi hub on Modo Island The work progresses  slow but steady for the new Goyang Koi farm. A new Koi house, a restaurant and a botanical garden. Mickey and I can’t wait to see it al. We want to help Korea and Kim Young Soo with the realization of his plans. But first the infrastructure from Incheon to Gangwha Do must be done.

The Peace Road: Bridging Ganghwa-do and Incheon

The Peace Road project is an ambitious infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity between Ganghwa Island (Ganghwa-do) and Incheon. Set for completion in 2025, this project is a significant step towards fostering regional development, reducing travel times, and promoting peace and unity on the Korean Peninsula.

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Enhancing Connectivity and Accessibility

Ganghwa-do, known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, is currently accessible via a limited number of routes, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. The new bridge will drastically reduce the travel time between Ganghwa-do and Incheon, facilitating easier movement for residents, tourists, and businesses alike. This enhanced accessibility is expected to boost local tourism and economic activities, providing a much-needed stimulus to the region​ (KoreaTravelPost)​​ (Trippose – Korea Travel)​.

New fishhouse and peace road strategic Importance

Incheon Yeongjong ~ Sindo Peace Road – Incheon City

The Peace Road holds strategic importance beyond mere transportation improvements. By linking Ganghwa-do more directly to Incheon, the project aligns with broader national objectives of regional development and integration. Incheon, home to one of the busiest international airports in the world, will become more accessible, thereby integrating Ganghwa-do more closely with global trade and tourism networks​ (Trippose – Korea Travel)​.

Find more about the Goyang Koi farm journey

Moreover, the Peace Road is part of a larger vision of fostering peace and unity on the Korean Peninsula. The bridge symbolizes a commitment to opening up and connecting regions, reflecting hopes for future reconciliation and cooperation between South and North Korea. The route is seen as a potential precursor to more extensive infrastructure that could eventually link South Korea more directly with its northern neighbor, enhancing economic and social ties​ (SkyscraperCity Forum)​.

Additionally, the new fishhouse holds significant strategic value. Modo Island is situated mere kilometers from Incheon Airport, positioning Korean Koi a short distance from global conquest.

Economic and Social Benefits

The anticipated economic benefits of the Peace Road are substantial. Local businesses on Ganghwa-do will gain better access to markets in Incheon and beyond, while the improved infrastructure is likely to attract new investments to the area. Tourism is expected to flourish as travel becomes more convenient, bringing more visitors to Ganghwa-do’s historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions.

Socially, the project promises to improve the quality of life for residents by providing better access to services and opportunities in Incheon. The reduction in travel time will facilitate easier commutes, more efficient transport of goods, and greater overall connectivity, enhancing the daily lives of those living on the island​ (KoreaTravelPost)​​ (Trippose – Korea Travel)​.

Makes the new Koi house a world wide fancy carp hub.

The Peace Road project is more than just a bridge; it is a symbol of progress and a beacon of hope for enhanced regional connectivity, economic growth, and long-term peace on the Korean Peninsula. As construction progresses towards its 2025 completion, the benefits of this strategic infrastructure development will begin to unfold, promising a brighter, more connected future for Ganghwa-do and its people.

Boost your Koi dedication.

Goyang Koi farm
We share our knowledge!

Exciting News for Koi Aficionados! Goyang Koi, renowned for its exquisite koi selection, now has a dedicated page on Koitalk.app. This is your gateway to a deeper dive into the world of koi. Discover expert insights, care tips, and the latest trends in koi keeping. Visit the Goyang Koi page on Koitalk.app now, and enrich your koi knowledge like never before. Your journey into the captivating world of koi is just a click away! Ask Shikibu about your questions. Go Sanke

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Get the feeling of the Goyang Koi fishhouse:

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