Guide to Showa Sanshoku Koi Patterns, Care, Size, Diet & Costs 2023
Table of Contents
Koi fish have a rich history spanning thousands of years, with the modern breeding practices of koi carp originating in Japan and China around the 4th century. Scientific evidence, particularly from mtDNA sequencing, supports the widely accepted belief that koi are descendants of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), which is known to have originated in East Asia. Despite accumulating evidence, the notion of koi being descendants of common carp continues to be disputed in some circles.
Since the 4th century AD, there has been a significant proliferation of koi breeds, patterns, and colorations, largely facilitated by advancements in the aquaculture industry. In fact, DNA studies have demonstrated that large-scale domestication of carp and subsequent selective breeding to obtain vibrant colors and unique patterns began in China around 6,000 B.C.
Historically, these specially bred and colorful carp were often presented as gestures of goodwill and symbols of peace to individuals holding political and economic power. This tradition led to the introduction of koi to Europe and, eventually, the Americas, where they gained popularity as cherished pets and came to be widely known as “koi” rather than mere emblems of wealth and influence.
Showa Sanshoku, which is part of the gosanke or “big three” along with Kohaku and Taisho Sanshoku (Sanke) koi, emerged in 1927. A breeder named Jukichi Hoshino achieved this variety by crossing a Kohaku (characterized by white and red coloration) with a ki utsuri (featuring yellow with black bands). Initially, Showa did not garner much attention due to the yellow hues inherited from the ki utsuri, resulting in lackluster reds and whites in the offspring.
It was not until the 1960s when another breeder, Tomiji Kobayashi, successfully paired his Showas with intensely red-colored Kohakus. This breeding strategy resulted in more visually appealing Showas, which are commonly referred to as Kobayashi Showa and serve as the foundation for most modern iterations of the breed. This lineage is often known as the “old style Showa.
What does Showa Sanshoku Mean?
The term “Showa Sanshoku” conveys a dual significance. Firstly, “Showa” pays homage to the reigning emperor from 1901 to 1989, during the inception of this koi lineage. Secondly, “Sanshoku” can be deconstructed as “san,” denoting “three” in Japanese, and “shoku,” signifying “colors,” thereby encompassing the white, red, and black pigmentation exhibited by these koi. The designation “Showa” serves as a concise appellation for this variety of koi and is widely employed in reference to them.
Showa Varieties & How to Identify Them
Although it is a characteristic of all Showa koi to possess black skin (referred to as Sumi) adorned with red to red-orange markings (Hi) and white markings (Shiroji) on top, there exists a wide range of Showa varieties that exhibit different patterns and arrangements.
Showa koi can occasionally be mistaken for Sanke. However, the primary distinction lies in their appearances. Sanke koi feature a white base skin with black spots that do not extend below the lateral line or onto the head, whereas Showa koi have black skin that becomes visible through white and red markings.
The Sumi base on Showa koi often manifests as thick bands, although spotting is not uncommon. These bands and spots of Sumi can extend beyond the lateral line and onto the head. Additionally, Showa koi may display black spotting or rays on the pectoral fins, known as motogoro, while Sanke koi typically possess entirely white fins or may exhibit Sumi stripes (rather than spots) on the fin(s).
Varieties According to Markings on the Body
1) Hi Showa Showa exhibit a predominantly red hue, showcasing a substantial presence of Sumi that becomes discernible, while white markings are minimal, if existent at all. It is imperative that the red pigmentation within Showa Koi demonstrates interconnectedness, resembling vast islands.
2) Kindai Showa The Kindai Showa breed showcases a predominant white coloration, constituting at least 40% or more of the overall pattern, which is consistently interconnected. Furthermore, there may be variable degrees of Hi (red) and Sumi (black) pigmentation present.
3) Old Style Showa The Showa variety in the old style represents one of the original Showa bloodlines. These Showa exemplify predominantly black pigmentation with minimal white markings, while the secondary color is red. A commonly recognized benchmark entails a composition of 40% or greater black, 40% or fewer red, and 20% or fewer white.
4) Doitsu Showa Doitsu Showa koi exhibit various characteristics mentioned above, or a combination thereof, with the exception that they possess distinct Doitsu traits. As such, these particular koi lack scales throughout their body, except for the presence of broader scales along their lateral line and dorsal fin.
5) Kin Showa Kin Showa can exhibit any of the aforementioned patterning variations, yet it showcases a distinguished golden metallic luster. This effect may manifest as a subtle glimmer with a faint touch of gold, or as a conspicuous display of resplendent gold.
- Gin Rin Showa
The Gin Rin Showa exhibits similarities to the Kin Showa variety, but with a distinct silver-toned metallic sheen. When a koi possesses a combination of both varieties, it is referred to as kin-gin-rin, denoting the presence of “gold and silver scales.”
- Ai Showa
The Ai Showa showcases blue or deep indigo speckles distributed across its entire body.
Varieties Categorized by Head Markings
7 Maruten Showa
Koi displaying the Maruten pattern feature a red spot on their head, commonly referred to as a “crown.” Additionally, red patches with varied patterns can be observed on the remaining body areas, with the presence of red, white, and black occurring in various locations.
8 Tancho Showa
The Tancho Showa, meaning “red sun,” is characterized by a solitary red marking situated on the top of its head, while the remaining head and body exhibit white coloration. Notably, Sumi markings may appear within the red spot.
9 Maruten Although the translation of Maruten is somewhat approximate, koi bearing this pattern possess a red spot on their head, often referred to as a “crown.” Furthermore, the body displays additional red patches with diverse patterns. The characteristic black patterning of Sanke koi, consisting of red or white plates, can be found anywhere on the back.
10 Boke Showa
Boke Showa exhibits a more subdued appearance, with the Hi and Shiroji typically maintaining their vibrancy (though not always), while the Sumi markings appear blurred and grayish rather than sharp and black.
11 Menware & Hachiware Showa
Menware and Hachiware are sought-after patterns within the Showa variety. Menware refers to a lightning-shaped Sumi pattern that typically extends from the base of the head to the nose or mouth. Hachiware, on the other hand, refers to a Sumi pattern resembling a collar or yoke, running from gill to gill at the base of the head. This pattern may also form a V or Y shape, extending onto the face. Both Menware and Hachiware patterns are highly coveted by judges in competitive koi competitions.
More information about Showa koi
Showa Koi fish, also known as Showa Sanshoku, is a type of ornamental fish that is highly prized among Koi enthusiasts for its striking coloration and distinctive patterns. These fish are highly sought after by collectors and hobbyists alike, and are considered to be some of the most beautiful and valuable Koi in the world.
The Showa Koi is a member of the Gosanke group of Koi, which also includes the Kohaku and the Sanke varieties. These fish originated in Japan, where they were first bred in the early 1920s. The Showa Koi is the result of crossbreeding between the Kohaku and the Matsuba Koi varieties, with the addition of black pigmentation to create the distinctive three-color pattern that is characteristic of this breed.
Showa Koi are known for their striking black, red, and white patterns, which are arranged in a unique and complex pattern. The black coloration is the most dominant, and is usually seen in the form of large patches or stripes on the body of the fish. The white coloration is often seen in the form of smaller, irregular patches, while the red coloration is used to highlight certain areas of the fish, such as the fins and the head.
One of the most unique features of the Showa Koi is the way that the black, white, and red colors are blended together. Unlike other Koi varieties, the coloration of the Showa Koi is not arranged in a symmetrical pattern. Instead, the colors are arranged in a random and irregular pattern, creating a truly unique and eye-catching appearance.
In addition to their striking appearance, Showa Koi are also highly prized for their size and longevity. These fish can grow to be quite large, with some specimens reaching lengths of over three feet. They are also known for their hardiness and resilience, which allows them to live for many years in the right conditions.
To care for Showa Koi, it is important to provide them with a large and well-maintained pond that is properly filtered and aerated. These fish are quite active and require plenty of space to swim and explore. They also require a balanced diet that is rich in protein and vitamins, and should be fed multiple times a day.
Overall, Showa Koi fish are a truly stunning and unique variety of ornamental fish that are highly prized among collectors and enthusiasts. With their striking coloration and distinctive patterns, these fish are sure to be a centerpiece of any Koi pond or aquarium.
How to Appreciate & Judge Showa Koi
The evaluation of Showa, like any koi, is contingent upon various factors, including the location and the judges involved. In Japan, where koi keeping and competitions hold significant historical and cultural significance, the judging process can exhibit a degree of subjectivity, and judges may harbor biases based on lineage.
For instance, it is conceivable that a judge in Japan may overlook certain physical attributes if they recognize a pedigreed or aged bloodline. Consequently, a fish may receive an unfavorable assessment in Japan due to its relatively lower cost stemming from an “inferior” bloodline, while it could achieve success elsewhere based on other considerations. Frequently, the specific criteria utilized in judging are tailored to suit the preferences of individual judges.
Nonetheless, there are generally accepted guidelines followed when evaluating and appraising Showa koi. Depending on the specific variety of Showa, certain differentiations in guidelines may exist.
General Guidelines for Judging Showa
The same principles governing the evaluation of Kohaku and Taisho Sanshoku (Sanke) also apply to Showa. These guidelines will be reiterated below, incorporating any distinctive aspects relevant to Showa.
The fish should exhibit no deformities, such as missing fins, a malformed mouth, or any indications of injury (unless such injuries occurred accidentally during transportation). Additionally, Sanke should be free from parasites, ulcers, or any other signs of illness.
Pattern Symmetry
Symmetry holds paramount significance in evaluating the quality of a Showa Koi. The meticulous arrangement of Hi and Sumi patterns from the front to the back and side to side should achieve a harmonious and reasonably symmetrical balance, although strict symmetry is not necessary. Unilateral patterns along the spine will impart an unbalanced appearance, diminishing the likelihood of receiving favorable judgment. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on favoring unique patterns. A proportional and symmetrical head, accompanied by fins that possess proportional and symmetrical characteristics, is also essential.
Diverging from the standards for Sanke and Kohaku, the Sumi markings and Hi plates of a Showa Koi are permitted, and even encouraged, to extend below the lateral line on the fish’s head or back. This allowance means that red or black coloration can expand beyond or below the ribs. In fact, the Sumi patterns should exhibit the impression of wrapping around the fish’s body, with the presence of such wrapping in the Hi patterns considered an added advantage. Concerning the fins, it is preferable for the Showa Koi to possess motogoro, denoting black markings at the base of each pectoral fin, which should extend approximately to the first one-third of the fin’s length, with the remaining portion being white.
Judging the Head
Showa koi must possess, primarily, a prominent presence of Sumi pigment on their head. It is highly desirable for them to exhibit all three colors on their head, with the Sumi forming a Menware or Hachiware pattern, as previously discussed. Ideally, the red, white, and black pigments should harmoniously interplay without disruptive interruptions. However, achieving this outcome is challenging, as breeding specific traits remains unpredictable even among seasoned experts.
The inclusion of white pigment on the head serves to prevent the fish from presenting an excessively dark or stark appearance, although the significance of this aspect may vary depending on the judge and the specific variety of Showa (notably, Hi Showa are less likely to display this characteristic). While not obligatory, Showa koi featuring Sumi on their nose often receive favorable consideration from judges.
Judging the Body
A Showa’s Shiroji should exhibit a vibrant white color reminiscent of pristine snow, devoid of any yellowish or off-color tints. The delineation of all patterns, be it red, white, or black, should display exceptional precision and clarity, except in the case of Boke Showa. Unlike Sanke and Kohaku, Showa can exhibit red or black pigmentation in their tails. However, an excessive concentration of Sumi towards the tail is generally not preferred by judges and is commonly referred to as being “tail heavy.”
The specific hue of the Hi plates is of lesser significance, as they can vary from orange to a vivid cherry-red. As long as the Hi plates across the fish possess uniformity in shade, the precise shading becomes less consequential. It is worth noting that certain judges may favor a deeper red Hi, while others may prefer a bright red-orange hue. The Sumi markings should be as dense and intense as liquid ink, once again with the exception of Boke Showa.
Keeping Showa – Health, Growth & Diet
- Price of Showa Showa, being a specially-bred variety of koi, often command higher prices compared to other fish. In addition, one must consider the associated maintenance costs, including factors such as food and water quality. Proper filtration and aeration systems, tailored to the size of the pond, are essential requirements for keeping Showa koi, and their pricing can vary accordingly.
- Showa Temperature Although lacking concrete scientific evidence, some proponents argue that water temperature influences the visual characteristics of Sanke koi, including Showa. Allegedly, colder water promotes a darker red coloration akin to Kohaku and Sanke, while warmer water tends to produce a more orange-red Hi. Optimal water temperatures for Showa, like Sanke, typically range between approximately 13°C and 26°C (55°F to 79°F).
- Showa Gender & Age Due to hormonal factors, females require more time to fully develop their red and black coloration. Once achieved, these colors tend to endure into later stages of their lifespan. In contrast, males often exhibit earlier color development, but it tends to fade more rapidly as they age.
A genuine Showa begins its life entirely or predominantly black, as this constitutes the base color of their skin. As they mature, the koi gradually acquire more Shiroji (white) and Hi (red) markings. Juvenile Showa may initially display grey or lackluster Sumi (black) patches, which will likely mature into proper, inky black coloration over time. Regardless of gender, it may take several years for a Showa to fully exhibit its vibrant hues, necessitating patience and an appreciation for the visual journey it undertakes.
- Showa Diet To promote and sustain healthy coloration, Showa koi are often fed diets enriched with color enhancers, such as those containing spirulina or krill. Additionally, a protein-rich diet (>30%) facilitates proper growth. These dietary considerations are less crucial if showcasing the fish at exhibitions is not a priority. Nevertheless, the nutritional requirements of Showa largely align with those of other koi.
It is important to note that an excessive intake of color enhancers, such as spirulina, carotene, and xanthophyll, may cause the white portions of the fish to exhibit a yellowish tint. Additionally, it can result in off-color spotting in the red areas and Sumi that appears more bluish than black.
How to Breed Showa Koi For Color & Pattern
When endeavoring to selectively breed Showa or other sub-varieties of koi, similar to any distinct koi type, it becomes a rather intricate task. In order to shed light on this matter, we conducted an analysis of a comprehensive study centered on the genetics of Kohaku koi, whose findings are translatable to Showa as Kohaku serves as the foundational variety for Showa. The study revealed that the manifestation of Kohaku (and consequently, Showa) pigmentation is governed by numerous genes and a multitude of alleles. Achieving offspring with the desired Showa coloring can require several successive generations. Notably, even when both parent koi are Showa, the probability of any offspring inheriting the Showa traits is merely 30% on average.
For an illustrative representation of the challenges associated with breeding koi for specific varieties, we encourage you to consult the Punnett square featured in our Kohaku koi article. To provide a rudimentary visual depiction of Showa genetics, one would need to construct a tri-hybrid Punnett square solely addressing color possibilities, disregarding other aspects. This undertaking grows increasingly intricate. Rest assured that breeding any Gosanke, particularly Showa, demands a considerable amount of knowledge and effort.
More information of Showa koi fish
Showa koi fish The Showa is the [ast of the “Big Three” varieties collectively known as Go Sanke, and historically by far the youngest. lt was developed in 1921, in Niigata, byJukichi Hoshino. who crossed a Ki Utsuri
with a Kohaku.
These early fish displayed very poor, yellowish hi and indifferent sumi, and it was not until untit1965 that Tomiji Kobayashi improved the strain by crossing female Showa with male Sanke and Yagozen Kohaku resulting in the deep scarlet hi, glossy black and snow-white skin we appreciate today.
Outcrosses with Sanke and Kohaku continue to be made, not on[y to maintain brilliant color, but also to produce fish that satisfy the modern taste. As we shall see, where some Showa closely resemb[e their forebears, others could be mistaken, at first glance, for Sanke.
This is a common error for beginners to make, and not surprising, as both varieties are red, black, and white
koi. However, Showa are black fish with red and white markings and the distribution and positioning of the sumi is (or at least used to
be) very distinctive. Sanke sumi is a subsidiary color , appearing only above the lateral line and rarety on the head, in typical Bekko “tortoiseshell configuration, whereas the glossy b[ack of Showa is better described as “wrapping”; in some examptes it appears to extend from the betty up around the body. Large areas of sumi can btend together to produce a pattern tike a tightning bolt (inazuma). This is especially noticeable on the head, where the black cutting across an area of hi can generate bold and striking effects.
The traditional Showa usually has red as the dominant color, with sumi and white in roughly equal proportions. lf
more than half the body is red, viewed from above, the fish is referred to as a Hi Showa. But whereas an Aka Sanke is not a
Hi Showa- This is a Hi Showa-not a Hi Utsuri, which it resembles. Any visible white areas on the body. however small make the koi a Showa. This is a full bodies and imposing fish who only obvious fault is the uneven sumi in the pectoral fins. There is a marked lack of difiguring shimis.
Showa are one of the Gosanke or “Big 3” koi fish along with Taisho Sanke and Kohaku koi. Showa are beautiful koi, with colors of white, red, and black painted
The stunning Showa koi fish fist came about in 1927, but the coloring did not reach its current perfection until 1965. After thirty-six years a
The most obvious difference between the Sanke and Showa is the presence of sumi on the head. Generally, Sanke will have only two colors on its head — white and red, with no sumi present. … In contrast, you should see all three colors, including black, on the heads of Showa. Bold Showa patterns begin on the face.
Definition
A koi with Hi and white markings on black skin is defined as “Showa-Sanshoku” The joints of its pectoral fins are black (Fig. 4-24)
Origin
The Showa-Sanshoku was bred by Mr. Jukichi Hoshino by mating a Ki-Utsuri and a Kohaku in 1927. Hi color of the first Showa-Sanshoku was yellowish brown. Mr. Tomiji Kobayasi succeeded in producing real red Hi by using a Yagozemon-Kohaku. Then it has become one of the best kinds.
Pattern
Hi markings
It is necessary to have a big Hi marking on the head. Hi should be uniform and dark Its edge must be clear.
White markings
About 20% of white is desirable. The color should be snow white
White marking are necessary on the head, the tail joint and the back.
Sumi markings
There are two basic patterns the pattern of which Sumi divides the head Hi into two (Fig. 4-25) and that of which Sumi draws V on the head and which has
a marking on the nose (Fig. 4-26). The former is the original type. The latter is more impressive than the former.
The pattern of Sumi on the body should be large lighting shaped or mountain-shaped
The pectoral fins should have Sumi at their joints. They must not be plain white or black. They must not have Hi Stripes, either.
Distinctive features of the Taisho-Sanke and the Showa-Sanshoku
Both the Taisho-Sanke and the Showa-Sanshoku are tricolor white, black and red. The former has red and black markings on white skin, but the latter has red and white markings on black skin. The following items are the distinctive features.
- The Taisho-Sanke does not have Sumi on the head but the Showa-Sanshoku does.
- Sumi of the Taisho-Sanke’s trunk stay on the back, but that of the Showa-Sanshoku’s trunk spread over the abdomen.
- Pectoral fins of the Taisho-Sanke are white or striped. but those of the Showa-Sanshoku have Sumi at their joints. It is easy to distinguish one from the other by these features. If you are an expert koi keeper. You will tell the difference by examining the quality of Sumi, because that of these two koi is completely different
Kind
Boke-Showa
Every Sumi scale the Showa-Sanshoku looks relieved clearly, but Sumi of the Boke Showa is blurred and light.
Boke In the normal Showa, the Sumi must be coal black but in the Boke it is blurred and bluish in places as though the black had not made it to the surface of the Koi (which is just what has happened).
Hi-Showa
It is the Showa with a large Hi marking which spreads from head to tail.
Kindai-Showa
It shows many white parts and looks like a Taisho-Sanke at a glance.
Kindai Showa Modern (“Kindai”) Showa
have more extensive white coloration and
less black than traditional Showa.
Doitsu-Showa
It is the Showa of the Doitsu family.
Koromo-Showa- Koromo
blue-bordered scales. They have the Sumi of the Taisho Sanshoku (Hon Sumi) as well as the Ai of the Koromo(Koromo Sumi). – Ai Showa or Goromo Showa
Kanoko-Showa- Kawarimono
Kawarimono or Kawarigoi as they are sometimes called is a catchall class for all of … This group includes Kanoko Kohaku, Kanoko Sanke and Kanoko Showa.
Kage-Showa-Kawarimono
Kawarimono or Kawarigoi as they are sometimes called is a catchall class for all of the … They include Kage Shiro Utsuri, Kage Hi Utsuri, and Kage Showa.
Showa-Shusui- Kawarimono
KAWARIMONO (ALL OTHERS)(no metallic koi allowed) We finally get to the … Hybrids of two varieties include Showa Shusui and the Goshiki. Koi of the Karasu
Kin-Showa
Kin Showa. Kin Showas are a metallic version of a regular Showa. A good Kin Showa will have a nice balance of color. The pattern must be easy on the eyes and the should sharp edges between the patterns. Kin Showa are created by breeding a regular Showa and a Platinum Ogon.
Gin-Showa-Hikari-Utsuri
Hikari Utsuri variety are koi like Kin Showa, Kin Ki Utsuri, Kin Hi Utsuri, Gin Shiro Utsuri. What is common here is that they are all metallic
Hi Showa Red (“hi”) coloration predominates in this variety, although the white body color can still be seen.
Kinginrin-Showa-Kinginrin
Kinginrin stands for golden silvery scales. The fish are highly appreciated because of the glittering effect in the sun and therefore always stand out among the other koi. One speaks of Kinginrin when the koi has at least 20 scales. Ginrin occurs in almost all variants. learn more
Tancho-Showa-Tancho
Learn more about types of koi
If you want to buy showa koi fish and other types of koi fish click koi fish for sale philippines link
Showa koi fish people ask
What makes a good Showa Koi?
Showa is koi type with combination of a good Kohaku and a good Shiro Utsuri koi type. Showa go through many changes as they grow.
Many times the black is very deep and only comes out as the fish grows. For this reason, if you see gray areas, it might not be poor quality white but deep black that will appear later.
What is the difference between a Showa and Sanke?
Look It in the Face.
The most obvious difference between the Sanke and Showa is the presence of sumi on the head. Generally, Sanke will have only two colors on its head — white and red, with no sumi present. … In contrast, you should see all three colors, including black, on the heads of Showa
What is Grade A koi?
Koi grades mean nothing.
It means that you’ll have to hand-select the koi for your pond, since you can’t trust any Koi distributor to choose your koi for you by their own grading criteria
showa koi fish
showa koi fish for sale
doitsu showa koi fish– is a doitsu version of showa no scales other than enlarged scales along the lateral line and two lines running either side of the dorsal fin
yellow showa koi fish– usually the yellow color of showa when they are young will change to red or orange once they matured The Yellow koi fish meaning These gold-colored fish symbolize fortune and wealth. The Japanese term for them is yamabuki. koi symbolizes true love while
ki showa koi fish– is a showa having yellow markings insted of red markings
kindai showa koi fish
hi showa koi fish
Showa. Koi is a Japanese word meaning “carp.” These normally wild, gray fish were domesticated for use in ornamental ponds and backyard water gardens. … The Showa classification implies a black (Sumi black) koi with red (Hi-meaning sharp red patches) and white (Shiro) markings
Swimming koi represent advancement and determination. Fish in general symbolize wealth and surplus, and the Chinese believe koi particularly represent good fortune in business and academics. Buddhists on the other hand see koi as representations of courage. Together in a koi pond, they represent love and friendship. learn more about koi fish meaning
What does a koi fish tattoo represent?
Swimming koi represent advancement and determination. Fish in general symbolize wealth and surplus, and the Chinese believe koi particularly represent good fortune in business and academics.
Buddhists on the other hand see koi as representations of courage. Together in a koi pond, they represent love and friendship.
Learn more about different types of koi
How do you pick a good Koi Showa?
Start selecting a young showa, as with other young koi, by looking at the head. The head should have all three colors: red, black, and white, preferably in equal amounts. Best would be to have a good kohaku head with a lightening stripe or a Y -shape in black on the top of the head.
How do you breed Showa Koi?
To breed showa cross showa with showa. at about three days post hatch keep only the black fry. These black babies will be the potential showa babies although only a few will turn out to be anything identifyable as showa. Only type of koi harder to breed than showa is Sanke
What makes a good Showa Koi?
Ideally Showa Koi , almost all of the pectoral fins, except for the outermost tips, should be black. As the pectoral fins grow out, the black seems to stay the same and the white area on the outside seems to spread out. … Red is not acceptable in the fins. Pectoral fins should have Sumi at the base, up against the body
how to choose a good showa koi
Start selecting a young showa, as with other young koi, by looking at the head. The head should have all 3 colors (red, black and white), preferably in equal amounts. Best would be to have a good kohaku head with either a lightening stripe or a v-shape in black on the top of the head.
One of the characteristics to look at is the pectoral fins
This is not typical Showa pectoral sumi, but still in the form of blocks, rather than stripes
Motoguro
In the classic motoguro, the sumi in the pectorals forms an even block spreading up from the ball joint of the fin.
Motuguro plus radiating strips is still the mark of a Showa, rather than a Sanke
Next to look at is the head pattern of Showa
Heading for perfection
A head study of a classy Hi Showa, showing the three primary colors, black, red and white setting one another off to perfection. The white element in the fins relieves any impression of pigment overkill.
showa koi meaning- Showa are the last in the group of three koi collectively called Gosanke (Kohaku, Sanke & Showa).
Showa is a black koi with red and white pattern markings. The second, Sanshoku, breaks down into “san,” Japanese for “three,” and “shoku” means “colors,”
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