Emergency Koi Relocation During Liner Replacement in Caribbean

St. Maarten pond leak, lost one koi. New liner arrives in 1+ week. Holding 4 koi in temp containers during replacement. Asks about 55-gal plastic container use.

Temporary Holding

Any large non-toxic container: kiddie pool, stock tank, Rubbermaid tub, bathtub. 55-gal drum fine if food-grade. Fill with pond water.

Refill Protocol

1. New liner installed.
2. Fill with fresh water + dechlorinator (chlorine/heavy metals).
3. Add 0.05% pond salt.
4. AERATE VIGOROUSLY 1-2 hours before adding fish (fresh water low O₂, high CO₂ → gas bubble disease).
5. Return fish + saved pond water.

Minimize stress; monitor water quality.