Tri-Star Koi

12/06/2024

Winter Nights at Tri-Star Koi

12/02/2024

**Tosai Moving Day**

As the weather begins to cool, it's time for us to relocate some of our tosai here Tri-Star Koi. Have you ever dipped your hands into water when it’s 29 degrees Fahrenheit outside? We highly recommend against it—leave that to the trained professionals!

At the farm, we are diligently preparing for the harsh winter to ensure our koi have a comfortable transition into spring. We are committed to constant maintenance and careful oversight of our koi. Although we continue to feed them, we are doing so at a significantly reduced rate. Once we activate the heaters, we will gradually increase their feeding.

We are also treating and changing the water, at smaller rates, as koi are particularly vulnerable during this time. Our goal is to set them up for success as we approach spring. Thank you for your continued support!

11/24/2024

In our ongoing commitment to connect with fellow fish enthusiasts and promote our shared passion for koi, Tri-Star Koi is excited to announce our participation in a local fish meeting in Knoxville, TN. This event provided us with a wonderful opportunity to meet and engage with a diverse group of individuals who share our love for aquatic life.

It was a pleasure to connect with everyone who attended, and we thoroughly enjoyed the discussions we had throughout the day. Engaging with both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers allowed us to share insights about the joys and rewards of koi keeping. We hope that our conversations sparked inspiration and enthusiasm among participants, encouraging them to delve deeper into this enriching hobby.

At Tri-Star Koi, we believe in fostering a strong community of koi lovers, and events like this are invaluable in building relationships and sharing knowledge. Thank you to all who came out to meet us, and we look forward to continuing these connections as we promote the beauty and artistry of koi keeping!

11/22/2024

Tri-Star Koi is pleased to announce our upcoming visit to Knoxville this Sunday, November 24. We will be offering a selection of premium koi food and merchandise. We invite you to join us for this opportunity to connect and discuss all things koi. Your support is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to seeing you there!

11/15/2024

As the colder season approaches, many clients often ask whether to continue feeding their koi. The answer is yes, but it’s essential to adjust their diet as the temperatures drop. Koi digestion changes significantly in response to colder water temperatures, which slows their metabolic rate and reduces their activity levels. Consequently, koi require fewer calories during this time, making a high-protein diet unsuitable and potentially problematic, as koi may struggle to digest heavier foods, leading to digestive issues if overfed.

To support their health during colder months, koi keepers should transition to easily digestible foods, such as wheat germ. This type of food provides necessary nutrition while minimizing stress on their digestive systems. It is important to note that while growth food can still be offered, its effectiveness diminishes at temperatures below 68°F, as koi are less able to utilize protein at these lower temperatures.

For temperatures consistently above 73°F, we recommend maintaining a varied diet, primarily using Saki-Hikari Balance, which is optimal for temperatures starting at 64°F. If the water temperature drops to this threshold, switching to Saki-Hikari Multi-Season, designed for temperatures of 54°F and above, is advisable. This food line contains probiotics that enhance digestibility and help maintain water quality during winter.

Additionally, the Hikari Wheat Germ line, available in both sinking and floating pellets, is an excellent economical choice since it offers lower protein levels compared to typical fish meals, making it easier for koi to digest during colder months. Notably, wheat germ food can also be used in the summer to help clear impurities from the koi’s shiroji (white areas), providing a balanced approach year-round.

If you have any questions related to koi feeding or diet adjustments, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to assist you in ensuring the health and well-being of your fish!

All of which we carry at Tri-Star Koi

🔗 https://www.tri-starkoi.com/dry-products

11/13/2024

New Koi Available!

We are excited to announce that more koi have been listed on our site! Be sure to place your orders before November 23, 2024, as this will be the final day for shipping due to the upcoming significant drop in temperatures. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your collection!

Thank you for your continued support!

Tri-Star Koi

**** https://www.tri-starkoi.com/japanese-import-koi-1

**** https://www.tri-starkoi.com/japanese-import-koi-group

11/12/2024

⚠️ Koi emergency ⚠️

Today, Tri-Star Koi had the incredible opportunity to visit the University of Georgia Veterinary Hospital. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Vicki Vaughn for inviting us to observe and participate in procedures involving a large Sanke koi.

Upon arrival at the University of Georgia, the Sanke was promptly greeted by veterinary technicians who helped to settle her in the back for the necessary procedures. After answering a few basic questions regarding the koi's condition, we joined the team as they debriefed on how to effectively manage the procedure.

The head veterinarian began by sedating the Sanke to minimize her stress throughout the process. Once she was fully sedated, the team quickly transferred her to the examination room for further testing.

The first procedure conducted was a CT scan. This advanced technology utilizes X-rays to provide detailed images of the koi’s soft tissues and bones, assisting in the identification of any injuries she may have sustained.

Next, blood samples were withdrawn for testing to check for potential diseases or abnormalities. Following this, the team performed an ultrasound to assess any possible organ damage. Finally, a microscopy sample was taken to screen for parasites that could jeopardize the koi's health.

It was truly impressive to witness skilled professionals dedicated to caring for our beloved fish throughout this procedure.

11/07/2024

Final Koi Offering from Tri-Star Koi!

As we approach the end of the season, we are excited to announce our final group of koi available before we pause operations until February. This is your last opportunity to acquire these beautiful koi, as we will cease shipments on November 23, 2024.

We encourage you to secure your koi now before the colder temperatures set in. Stay tuned for more offerings when we resume in the spring!

Thank you for your continued support,

Tri-Star Koi

**** https://www.tri-starkoi.com/japanese-import-koi-1

**** https://www.tri-starkoi.com/japanese-import-koi-group

11/03/2024

What a great weekend at Aquashella Aquarium Festival!! We got to meet alot of people and fellow koi hobbyists as well! We look forward to working with Y’all!

11/02/2024

We are live here from Daytona Beach, Florida. Aquashella 2024

10/29/2024

🎉 Just when you thought our travels were over... NOPE! 🎉

Ladies and gentlemen, Tri-Star Koi is thrilled to announce that we’ll be attending the 2024 Aquashella Aquarium Festival in beautiful Daytona Beach, Florida this weekend, November 2-3! This event is the largest aquarium hobby expo in the nation, and it's going to be an incredible experience for all fish enthusiasts. We can't wait to connect with fellow koi lovers down there!

We’re especially excited to team up with our friends at Hikari Sales USA. to share how we use their fantastic products here at the farm. If you're along our route to Daytona, give us a shout! We’d love to drop by your pond and chat about all things koi!

Plus, we’ll be promoting the koi hobby and gearing up for the 2024 ALL AMERICAN KOI SHOW in fabulous Las Vegas this coming March. Join us for some fun, inspiration, and, of course, koi conversation!

See you in Daytona! 🐟✨

10/29/2024

Topic of Discussion: Stability in Koi Ponds and how this can affect the Beni/ Sumi/ Shiroji

Today, we will explore the important topic of stability within your koi pond—an often-overlooked aspect that plays a pivotal role in ensuring a happy and healthy environment for your koi.

So, what do we mean by stability? In the context of a koi pond, stability refers to the consistency of water parameters, the environment in which your koi reside, and the management of external factors that could disrupt this balance. Stability is desirable in all facets of life; we humans prefer a stable existence with reliable access to food and minimal stress. Similarly, fish thrive in stable conditions. By minimizing stressors, you can expect to see notable benefits in your koi, such as enhanced coloration, a healthy sheen, and increased eagerness to feed.

Water Quality: The Cornerstone of Koi Care

Water quality remains the most critical aspect of the koi hobby. Mastering this skill opens up endless possibilities for success in your endeavor. Quality water is vital not only for the organisms within it but also for the overall quality of life they experience. While some hobbyists may believe that a single water change each year is sufficient—claiming their koi have thrived for 15 to 20 years without issue—it raises an important question: at what quality of life do these fish truly exist? And were they at their fullest potential?

By maintaining consistent and stable water parameters, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of bacterial infections, parasites, and illnesses among your koi. When we refer to water quality, we presume a routine of frequent water changes—whether weekly, bi-weekly, or even daily—depending on your level of commitment to pond maintenance. More frequent water changes help keep ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites at lower levels, preventing toxicity to your fish. Additionally, you will experience fewer pH fluctuations, as maintaining lower levels of buildup in your pond contributes to a healthier environment overall.

Stability within the pond environment is crucial for the well-being of your koi. Koi are naturally sensitive creatures that thrive in calm and peaceful surroundings. Continuous disturbances, such as excessive handling or chasing, can lead to significant stress and disrupt their natural behaviors. By creating a serene environment, you allow your koi to focus on their health and well-being rather than constantly engaging in a fight-or-flight response.

Another important aspect of maintaining stability is the design of your pond. It's essential to avoid overcrowding and to implement features that minimize the risk of injury to your koi. Consider the stock level of fish in your pond; maintaining an appropriate and comfortable number of koi is vital. Overcrowding can lead to competition for resources and increase stress levels among your fish.

By providing your koi with ample space and a well-structured environment, you foster a thriving habitat where they can grow and flourish without undue competition or stress. This is a vital consideration that is often overlooked by hobbyists but has a significant impact on the overall health of your koi.

The Impact of Stability on Koi Color and Quality

At Tri-Star Koi, we frequently receive compliments from clients, judges, and fellow dealers regarding the exceptional skin quality and color of our koi. While we are humbled by these accolades, achieving such vibrant coloring and sheen is attainable for every hobbyist. It fundamentally hinges on maintaining stability for your koi.

Often, when we introduce new fish into our farm, they arrive in less than optimal conditions—characterized by yellow Shiroji and fading beni. While genetics play a significant role in determining the depth of beni, the brightness of shiroji, and the intensity of sumi, the quality of our selected genetics undoubtedly withstands scrutiny. Once these koi are in our pond, we focus on their immediate care: ensuring they are well-fed and that their water quality remains at the highest possible standards. Over time, this attentive approach leads to noticeable improvements in their overall development.

We recognize that while we control many aspects of their environment, consistency is key. By ensuring our koi reside in a stable environment rich in nutrients, we achieve several outcomes:
A.) We cleanse the shiroji to a pristine, snow-white finish.
B.) We maintain a deep and vibrant beni.
C.) We facilitate the proper development of sumi.

Through our experience, we have observed that when fish are subjected to stress due to an unstable environment, their coloration can suffer significantly. In most instances, they may not come back. The red hues may diminish, the whites can take on a yellowish tint, and the black pigments may fail to surface. These issues typically arise when one or more of the environmental conditions are not optimized.

While it is important to enjoy the hobby and its many rewards, it is equally crucial to ensure that your pond remains stable at all times.

In conclusion, the color, sheen, and overall activity of your koi are profoundly influenced by the stability of your pond. By maintaining excellent water quality and minimizing stressors in your environment, you will directly observe improvements in the vitality and appearance of your koi.

Below are some pictures of the quality of the skin we have or still developing for next year!

10/26/2024

At Tri-Star Koi, our commitment to the well-being of our koi remains our top priority, regardless of the season. Whether it's the chilly fall or the intense heat of summer, our care protocols adapt while still maintaining high standards. As the day begins at 5 AM, we embark on our responsibilities as koi farmers. Here’s a closer look at our daily practices:

# # # Feeding Practices

There is a common misconception regarding feeding koi in colder waters. During the warmer months, we feed our koi up to 10-12 times a day, allowing them to consume as much as they will take. As temperatures begin to drop, our feeding schedule changes: we now feed 6-8 times a day.

We also adjust the types of food we provide based on seasonal needs. Each tank has a specially tailored diet, reflecting the age, variety, and habits of the koi. Currently, our main pond's diet consists primarily of “Hikari Wheat Germ,” while our Nisai/Sansai high-quality pond receives a combination of “Saki-Hikari Balance,” “Hi-Growth,” and “Silk Worm Select.” These different dietary needs arise from the requirement to maximize weight gain before winter.

For our Nisai/Sansai pond, the fish load has been reduced from 12-16 inch koi in a 2,500-gallon tank to just 8. Our goal is to optimize their growth while water temperatures remain above 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Once temperatures drop below this threshold, we will transition them to a “Saki-Hikari Balance” only diet until spring. The entire “Saki-Hikari” line includes probiotics, enhancing the breakdown of food.

Conversely, we utilize Wheat Germ in our other tanks because of its lower protein and fat content, which prevents excessive growth during the winter months and minimizes ammonia production. Since koi metabolism slows in colder months, using high-fat/protein foods can lead to waste management issues.

# # # Water Changes

We continue to conduct substantial daily water changes—approximately 20% per tank. This practice serves multiple purposes: it significantly reduces organic matter and ammonia levels, removes growth hormones, and introduces fresh water for the koi. Given that ponds operate as closed systems, the introduction of new water greatly benefits our koi.

# # # Key Insights

As we feed actively here in Tennessee, it’s crucial to recognize that climatic conditions vary across the country, and practices may need to be adapted accordingly. Our feeding regimen is tailored to our specific circumstances and aims to provide a fat reserve for the koi, which is essential for their health and resilience during the winter. A malnourished koi will have a significantly weaker immune system compared to one that is well-nourished.

Water changes remain essential even in the colder months. Although the frequency may decrease compared to summer, consistent water management is vital to maintaining a healthy environment for our koi.

We hope this information proves helpful, and we wish you happy koi keeping!

Best regards,

Marlon
Tri-Star Koi

10/20/2024

San Antonio,
Thank you for the warm welcome and support during our recent visit! It was truly an honor to be in your city. We felt the genuine enthusiasm and camaraderie within the community, and we are eagerly looking forward to our return next year!

10/17/2024

I'm excited to share that I have officially begun my journey to the San Antonio Koi Show this weekend! With my boots on, I'm making several important stops along the way to visit clients' ponds and connect with fellow koi enthusiasts.

I commenced my travels yesterday (Wednesday), first arriving in Dallas, which served as my initial destination. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with some of our valued koi friends and clients in the Dallas area to discuss our shared passion.

I will spend one more day in Dallas before heading to Houston, where I plan to meet up with additional clients and koi enthusiasts. Tri-Star Koi look forward to these engaging interactions and the opportunity to showcase our commitment to the koi community.

Send us a PM if you are in the Dallas Area and want to chat koi!!

HOUSTON on Friday

10/15/2024

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/VwL4bKFA6fMhB1UG/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Marlon Ngo, president and owner of Tri-Star Koi LLC, heads to Tokyo to join Russell Peters of PS Koi, America’s top koi dealer, on one of his infamous koi trips. Dive into the details of this mind blowing and truly humbling experience here:
https://www.pondtrademag.com/delving-into-japans-koi-culture/

10/14/2024

Subject: Letter of Apology and Updated Koi Show Schedule

Dear Clients and Supporters,
At Tri-Star Koi, transparency and integrity are core values, and we deeply value the trust and confidence that our clients and supporters place in us. It is with a sense of regret that we address an error in our previous post, and provide you with updated information with the utmost honesty and accountability.

Contrary to our previous announcement about ending our Koi show tour in Atlanta, we have pulled the trigger and have made the decision to attend the "32nd Texas Koi & Goldfish Society Show" in San Antonio, Texas this morning. THAT'S RIGHT, WE ARE GOING TO THE LONE STAR STATE .... This decision was made in the midst of a grueling and somewhat sleep-deprived weekend schedule. I am excited to extend a warm Tennessee welcome to our friends and supporters in Texas and look forward to the opportunity to engage with the koi community in the Lone Star State. Oh yeah, Tri-Star Koi is coming!
We would also like to take this opportunity to highlight our commitment to personally connect with our valued clients and supporters in Texas.
During our journey, we plan to visit multiple areas, including Dallas: (Plano/ Ft. Worth/ Carrollton/ Arlington/ Metro) Waco:
Austin:
San Antonio:
Houston: (Katy/ The woodlands/ sugar land)
College Station/Bryan
Dallas again on our return trip.
**If you are in these areas, please reach out to us so we can see if you are within range for us to visit. *** We encourage you to reach out to us should our travels align with your location, and we will make every effort to meet with you and engage in discussions on koi/ koi health/ koi feeding.
Moreover, we are pleased to announce that we will be bringing the entire Hikari Koi Food Line to the Texas show. We welcome the opportunity to cater to any specific requirements you may have. If you need to pre order, we got you covered!
Our continued commitment to open and honest communication remains unwavering, and we are dedicated to upholding the trust and confidence that you have placed in Tri-Star Koi.
Should you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Us.

10/11/2024

3:34 am and we are all done unpacking! We left Cookeville, Tn around 8pm CST and arrived in Atlanta at 12 am EST. After unpacking all of our koi and setting up our booth, it is time to call it a night. We will be here at the Gwinnett county fair grounds Friday morning to meet all of y’all! Come check out our Koi selection and come chat!