The classification of koi fish varieties is mainly based on their patterns, colors, and scale characteristics. Here are the common types and their features:
1. Classic Tricolor Series
Kohaku Koi
Features alternating red and white colors. It must have red patches on the head, with the colors evenly and symmetrically distributed across the body.
Taisho Sanke Koi
Has red and black markings on a white base. It often has ink-like spots with a blue sheen, and those with such spots on the shoulders are considered top-grade.
Showa Sanshoku Koi
Dominated by a black base, paired with red and white patterns. The colors have a strong contrast, exuding the profoundness of the Showa era.
2. Solid Color and Metallic Series
Kinrin Koi (Golden Koi)
Entirely golden. A representative variety is the Yamabuki Kinrin.
Shiro Utsuri Koi (Platinum Koi)
Has silvery-white scales, with the edges of the scales often showing a bright white hue.
Kuro Utsuri/Sumi Koi (Black Gold/Black Tea Koi)
Has a black base, with scales that have a metallic luster.
3. Special Pattern Varieties
Utsuri Koi
Features a black base with triangular markings in white, yellow, or crimson. Bred from Showa Sanshoku, it has a strong contrast in body color.
Kujaku Koi (Peacock Koi)
Has interwoven red, white, and black colors, with large red patches on the back interspersed with black scales, resembling peacock feathers.
Tancho Koi
Has a round red patch on the top of the head, with the rest of the body being a solid color (such as white, black, or golden). It symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
4. Other Distinctive Varieties
Aoki Shusui (Blue Shusui)
Has blue scales paired with a red abdomen, with white edges on the scales.
Matsuba Koi (Pine Needle Koi)
Scales form a net-like pattern. It includes varieties like Kin Matsuba (golden) and Gin Matsuba (silver).
Koromo Koi
Offspring of Kohaku and Asagi koi hybrids, such as Aoromo (blue-clad) and Sumikoromo (ink-clad).
There are over 100 varieties of koi fish in total, and the above are the common ones. Their patterns change with age, so when raising them, attention should be paid to water quality and the choice of bait.