The Diversity of Koi

The diversity of the species is one of its most appealing aspects.

Koi, or Nishikigio (brocaded carp), have been a popular species of fish for centuries. Originally found across Eastern Asia, this close relative to the goldfish has captured the fancy of fish lovers in recent years, as Koi ponds can be found everywhere from golf courses, outdoor dining venues and back yards across the UK.

Koi are hardy, cold-water fish that thrive in most environments and are relatively easy to care for. Perhaps the most appealing aspect of this divine species are their ornamental qualities, as they come in an endless array of colours and patterns. While experts agree that through breeding the possibilities for variation in Nishikigio are virtually limitless, there are a number of well know types that are helpful to be able to identify when purchasing fish for your personal Koi pond.

Asagi: Denoted by light blue scales on top and red scales on bottom.
Bekko: A black pattern against white, red or yellow skin.
Goshiki: Mostly black with red, brown, blue and white accents.
Hikari-Moyomono: A Koi featuring two metallic colours, or with a metallic base and coloured pattern over it.
Kawarimono: Miscellaneous types of Koi
Kin Gin Rin: Koi with shiny scales. Most types of Koi can be Gin Rin as well.
Koromo: Marked by uniform sections of blue-edged scales.
Kohaku: A red pattern over white skin.
Ogon: Solid colour Koi (red, yellow, orange, cream or platinum).
Showa Sanshoku: Red and white pattern over black skin.
Shusui: Variety of Asage only partially scaled.
Taisho Sanshoku: Red and black pattern over white skin.
Tancho: Koi with the colour red only found in a circle on the front of the head.
Utsurimono: Red, yellow or white pattern over black skin.