The Houston Zoo is home to a vibrant and diverse collection of koi fish, which are a beloved part of the zoo’s aquatic exhibits. From the serene Reflection Pool to the interactive Koi Stream in the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo, these magnificent creatures captivate visitors with their stunning colors and graceful movements.
The Reflection Pool
The Reflection Pool at the Houston Zoo is a prime location to observe the koi fish. This tranquil body of water is home to hundreds of these majestic fish, which are temporarily relocated during the pool’s routine maintenance. The maintenance process, which typically occurs annually or every other year, involves draining the pool, cleaning it, and updating the surrounding plants.
The Koi Stream in the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo
Another must-see attraction for koi enthusiasts is the Koi Stream in the John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo. This interactive exhibit allows visitors to get up close and personal with the koi fish. The stream is carefully maintained to control algae growth, with the help of amphipods, small crustaceans that consume algae and support a balanced ecosystem. Floating islands with dense aquatic plants also play a crucial role in providing shade and habitat for the amphipods.
Koi Fish: An Overview
Koi fish, also known as Japanese carp, are domesticated varieties of the common carp. These vibrant creatures are bred for their stunning color patterns and can grow up to 30 inches long and weigh over 15 pounds. The Houston Zoo’s koi fish collection showcases the incredible diversity of these remarkable fish.
Visiting the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. General admission prices vary depending on age and residency, with discounts available for members and groups. The zoo is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Conclusion
The Houston Zoo’s koi fish are a true highlight for visitors, offering a unique opportunity to observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re admiring the serene Reflection Pool or interacting with the koi in the Koi Stream, the Houston Zoo’s koi fish are sure to leave a lasting impression on your zoo experience.
References
- ZooChat. (2024). Drained Koi Pond. Retrieved from https://www.zoochat.com/community/media/drained-koi-pond.719984/
- PartySlate. (n.d.). Reflection Pool | Houston Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.partyslate.com/venues/houston-zoo/event-spaces/4284
- The Houston Zoo. (2017). Reflection Pool Gets an Update. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/blog/reflection-pool-gets-update/
- The Houston Zoo. (2017). Water: The Science Beneath the Surface. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/blog/water-science-beneath-surface/
- YouTube. (2009). Restocking the Reflection Pool with Koi at the Houston Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1f2u8vxZB4