Koi, which is the colored species of Amur Carp, have many variety and are commonly kept in the pond for ornamental purpose. The type of a koi can be identified or characterized by the colors, patterns, and scales.
There are the limitless possible colors, and to make it simple, breeders have named and categorized them specifically based on some of their major colors. The passage below will help you identify the 6 popular koi fish.
Kohaku
This variety was first identified in Japan in the late of the nineteenth century. The name of "Kohaku" refers to "red and white", which explains the firm white base that is patterned with deep and vibrant red along the body.
Taisho Sanshoku or Taisho Sanke
Taisho Sanke, or often called "Sanke”, has similarity with Kohaku, except for the add-on black marks on the body.
Showa Sanshoku or Showa Sanke
Widely known as “Showa”, this variety can be mistaken for Taisho Sanke. But, Showa can be identified by the major black patterns spreading on the whole body, including the head (while Sanke is not).
Tancho
The single red patch on the head makes Tancho hugely well-known. In Japan industry, Tancho is regarded due to the similarity with the Red-Crowned Crane.
Chagoi
This koi, which has a close resemblance to the tea color, is considered as a symbol of good luck. They are also easy to train because of their friendly and docile personality.
Asagi
The name also refers to “pale greenish-blue”, which describes the light blue motifs on the back that combines with red or orange colors on the rest of the body. As the koi grows, the patterns tend to spread from the bottom of the body.
There are still many attractive various koi fish out there. Most of them can be distinguished by the combination of the basic colors and the patterns on the body. The reasons to keep them in the pond, of course, are because of their majestic beauty and the symbol of good luck.