BlueGills in a Koi Pond??

Question

I have a Koi pond in my backyard. This spring I noticed 3 dark fish which I have no clue on how they got here. I'd assume in came with a plant I purchased for the pond. I believe them to be Bluegills. My question is two-fold: First, are they detramental to my pond and Koi?? Second, will they reproduce faster then the Koi and start to dominant the Pond life?? THanks in advance.

Answer 1

Bluegill are fine with medium to large Koi.

They can become bullies with smaller fish.

If you are wanting to raise Koi, the Bluegill will eat the eggs and the young Koi. I've kept Bluegill with Koi and Oscars in my pond for years without any problems.

Also, large birds like Cranes and herons can transport fish eggs on their feet to new ponds.

Answer 2

I keep 2 perch in my koi and goldfish pond.....I was told they will eat the excess eggs laid ...NOT!  Unless you have a male and female I don't thing they will reproduce.  Mine have been in the pond for a few years....they seem to get along ...I'm not sure if they will breed with the other fish or not...The only thing I know for sure last year we discovered we had a small black goldfish/koi/perch/MIX? We aren't sure what it is.!

I will tell you this check your fish daily for wounds or disappearance .

They will grow so large being hand fed that usually anyone that sees them wants to throw a hook'n line in.  Some people say they are the largest perch they have ever seen.

If you don't see any conflict among them then don't worry...they could be koi.