Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Added Six Baby Koi

The young fish are settling into a temporary home before they join the garden's main indoor pond.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Aquariums

Bold vector editorial illustration of six baby koi fish swimming in a pond, featuring clean outlines and flat color fills. — The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has added six baby koi to its aquatic collection, following a donation by local volunteers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has acquired six baby koi donated by local volunteers. The fish, which measure between 3 and 6 inches in length, were spawned in 2024 and 2025.

Why it matters

This addition expands the garden's aquatic collection as it prepares to integrate the young koi with its existing group of four adult fish. The garden is also involving the public in the process by hosting a community naming contest.

The six new arrivals range from 3 to 6 inches in length and were spawned between 2024 and 2025. They must complete a 40-day observation period in the Conservatory's temporary pond before moving to their permanent home.

The players

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

This facility is a major horticultural destination located in Des Moines that features a large indoor conservatory and various outdoor gardens.

The details

The baby koi were donated by volunteers to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Staff members are currently monitoring the fish in a temporary pond located within the Conservatory to ensure their health and safety.

The koi were spawned throughout 2024 and 2025.
Voting for the koi names begins on September 23, 2026.
The community voting period for naming the fish ends on September 30, 2026.

Culture Shift

This move aligns with a broader trend of public gardens fostering community engagement through interactive naming campaigns and animal conservation efforts. By involving residents in the process, the institution strengthens the local connection to its living exhibits.

Residents can influence the garden's development by voting on the names for the new koi during the last week of September. This allows visitors to establish a personal connection with the animals before they are moved to the main indoor pond.

The takeaway

Engaging in public naming contests is a simple way for residents to deepen their appreciation for local institutions. Following these milestones helps visitors feel more connected to the growth and management of the garden's diverse animal life.