Koi variety When it comes to koi fish, few creatures in the aquatic world captivate with such elegance, color, and sheer variety. From brilliant whites and deep reds to metallic scales that shimmer in the sunlight, koi enthusiasts have over 100 types to explore and enjoy. Today, we’ll journey through 30 of the most enchanting koi varieties. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare to be mesmerized by these aquatic gems!
1. Kohaku Koi variety
Description: Kohaku are koi royalty and the foundational variety in koi breeding. They boast a pristine white base with striking red patterns known as Hi plates. Unique Types:
- Doitsu Kohaku: Scaleless, which emphasizes the pattern.
- Ginrin Kohaku: Shiny scales give this variety an extra glint.
- Tancho Kohaku: Features a single red spot on the head, like a Japanese flag.
2. Taisho Sanke Koi variety
Description: The Sanke combines Kohaku’s elegance with black sumi spots, adding contrast to its red and white coloration. Varieties:
- Tancho Sanke: A red head spot with black and white.
- Doitsu Sanke: Scaleless for a smooth look.
- Ginrin Sanke: Shiny scales that add sparkle.
3. Showa Sanshoku Koi variety
Description: Showa are born black with patterns of red and white, giving them a unique, layered look. Their black base color distinguishes them from the Sanke. Varieties:
- Doitsu Showa: Scaleless, accentuating its three colors.
- Tancho Showa: A single red dot on the head, with black and white across the body.
- Ginrin Showa: Scales have a lustrous shimmer.
4. Tancho Koi variety
Description: Named after Japan’s famous red-crowned crane, Tancho koi sport a red dot on their heads. It’s a beautiful touch of Japanese culture! Types:
- Tancho Kohaku: Pure white with a single red spot.
- Tancho Sanke: Adds black spots to the white body and red dot.
- Tancho Showa: Displays red, black, and white with the iconic red head.
5. Kujaku Koi variety
Description: Kujaku, or “Peacock Koi,” have a metallic white body with orange markings, complemented by a net-like pattern that gives them a shimmering effect. Variation:
- Red Kujaku: Rich red-orange shades make them even more striking.
6. Shiro Utsuri Koi variety
Description: These koi display a stark contrast of black and white, like ink against a blank canvas.
Types:
- Doitsu Shiro Utsuri: Scaleless and smooth-skinned.
- Ginrin Shiro Utsuri: Features a dazzling shine.
7. Hi Utsuri Koi variety
Description: These are similar to Shiro Utsuri but have a red base with black patches. Variation:
- Ginrin Hi Utsuri: A sparkling version of this bold-colored koi.
8. Ki Utsuri Koi variety
Description: With a yellow base overlaid by black patches, Ki Utsuri are visually striking but rare. A true treasure for koi keepers! Variation:
- Ginrin Ki Utsuri: Scales shine like stars against the black background.
9. Asagi Koi variety
Description: Recognized by a net-like pattern of blue scales, Asagi have red highlights on their lower body, fins, and gills. Types:
- Hi Asagi: Red coloration extends over the entire body.
- Ginrin Asagi: A glistening blue version.
10. Shusui Koi variety
Description: Shusui are scaleless versions of Asagi, with a distinctive “zipper” of dark scales down the back. Variation:
- Hi Shusui: Red coloration covers the body.
11. Gin Matsuba
Description: This metallic white koi showcases a lovely pinecone pattern along its back. Other Matsuba Varieties:
- Aka Matsuba: Red base with pinecone scales.
- Ki Matsuba: Yellow base with the signature pinecone look.
12. Yamabuki Ogon
Description: A metallic yellow koi with a color reminiscent of chrysanthemums, Yamabuki Ogon should be as bright as a summer’s day. Unique Trait: Fukurin (wrapping of skin around scales) gives it a unique texture.
13. Orenji Ogon
Description: A metallic orange koi, as vibrant as a summer sunset, and slightly less common. Note: Look for those with pronounced fukurin for a rich, textured look.
14. Mizuho Ogon
Description: With a deep red-orange body and dark scales down its back, Mizuho Ogon is perfect for koi enthusiasts looking for something unique.
15. Mukashi Ogon
Description: Known as “Old Ogon,” Mukashi Ogon have a bronze hue that can look grayish with metallic shine. Unique Trait: They tend to grow quickly, making them an exciting choice for any pond.
16. Platinum Ogon
Description: This metallic white koi shines like platinum jewelry. Note: They are simple but add an elegant, shimmering effect to any pond.
17. Beni Kikokuryu
Description: Often called “Ghost Koi,” Beni Kikokuryu have metallic patterns of black and white with bright red or orange. Variation:
- Doitsu Beni Kikokuryu: Smooth and scaleless.
18. Chagoi
Description: Known for their warm brownish-green hues, Chagoi are friendly and often lead the pack in koi ponds.
Tuấn Huỳnh Ngọc Soragoi
19. Soragoi
Description: A peaceful, light blue koi that’s easy to train and often bonds with its owner.
20. Ochiba Shigure
Description: Ochiba are bluish-grey koi with brown markings, mimicking fallen autumn leaves on water.
21. Goshiki
Description: Known as “Five-Colored Koi,” Goshiki have white, black, red, blue, and gray hues. A real showstopper!
22. Koromo
Description: Often called “Robe Koi,” Koromo have net patterns over their red spots, like a woven garment. Type:
- Ai Goromo: Features blue netting on red patches.
23. Kikokuryu
Description: Black and white metallic koi with ghostly beauty. Kikokuryu can sometimes appear almost iridescent.
24. Beni Kumonryu
Description: A scaleless black koi with orange or red patterns, named for the mythical dragon it resembles.
25. Kikusui
Description: With metallic red and white colors, Kikusui koi are striking and add a classic look to any pond.
26. Doitsu Hariwake
Description: A metallic white koi with yellow or orange patterns. Scaleless, they’re bold and beautiful.
27. Yamatonishiki
Description: A metallic version of the Sanke, Yamatonishiki koi have the same red, black, and white coloring with a metallic shimmer.
28. Aka Bekko
Description: These koi have red bodies with black spots and are similar to the Sanke but without white. Unique Quality: Known for their simplicity and bold colors.
29. Shiro Bekko
Description: White koi with black spots, the Shiro Bekko is understated but beautiful.
30. Midorigoi
Description: Rare and vibrant green koi. Midorigoi are like the rare green gems in a sea of red and white koi varieties.
Closing Thoughts on the Koi Variety Showcase
In the world of koi, these 30 varieties barely scratch the surface. Each koi type brings a unique beauty and charm, representing a piece of Japanese culture and artistry. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced koi keeper, exploring these varieties can add color, character, and a sense of tranquility to your pond. From the classic Kohaku to the elusive Midorigoi, koi fish remain timeless symbols of elegance and tradition, worthy of admiration and care.
Keep diving into this mesmerizing koi world, and remember – every koi is a masterpiece, waiting to swim into your heart and pond!
FAQs about Koi Fish Varieties
What is the most popular koi variety?
The Kohaku is the most popular koi variety due to its classic red and white coloration and striking contrast.
Are Tancho koi a specific breed?
No, Tancho refers to a pattern where the koi has a red mark on its head. It can appear in several varieties, such as Tancho Kohaku, Tancho Sanke, and Tancho Showa.
How can I tell the difference between Sanke and Showa?
Sanke has a white base with red and black markings, while Showa has a black base with red and white markings, often with more prominent black on the head.
What makes a koi “metallic”?
Metallic koi have a shiny, reflective quality on their scales. This trait is prominent in varieties like Platinum Ogon and Yamabuki Ogon.
Do koi change color over time?
Yes, many koi varieties, such as Kumonryu, can change color based on environmental factors like temperature and water quality. Others may darken or deepen in color with age.
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