Koi, a beautiful ornamental fish, is actually a variant of carp, originating in Japan and now a globally popular high-end ornamental fish. There are many varieties of koi, which can be roughly divided into 13 categories according to domestic and international standards, encompassing over a hundred different species. Among these numerous koi varieties, which are you most familiar with? Let's take a look at the top ten most prized koi, including Kohaku koi, Taisho Sanshoku koi, Tancho koi, Showa Sanshoku koi, Okin koi, Ryuhou koi, and more. Through this ranking, let's delve deeper into these captivating koi varieties.
1. Red and white koi
As is widely known, the red and white koi is considered the epitome of koi. There's a saying, "Koi begin and end with red and white," which shows how highly people value them. For beginners, red and white koi may be one of the best choices, but as their understanding of koi deepens, many eventually gravitate towards this breed. The standard requirement for red and white koi is that the base color should be pure white, preferably without any other colors mixed in, while the red parts should be as vibrant as possible.
2. Taisho Sanshoku Koi
Taisho Sanshoku koi are historically among the most expensive koi. This special variety, named Taisho Sanshoku because it originated in the Taisho era, is characterized by its red, white, and black markings. Its body is covered in a white base color, accented with red and black markings. Notably, its head only has red markings, lacking black ones, while its pectoral fins are covered with black stripes. High-quality Taisho Sanshoku koi require red, white, and black markings, along with shimmering blue-based black spots that complement the white spots distributed on areas such as the shoulders.
3. Red-crowned Koi
The Tancho koi is a gem among koi, easily distinguishable in a school of fish. Its body is snow-white, with a red tassel-like circular spot on the center of its head. When swimming, it resembles a white dragon churning the river; when still, it looks like a sun lying on the water. This type of koi always attracts attention, noble and magnificent, exuding an aristocratic air.
Among the many types of koi, the Tancho koi is known as the most favored by officials and is also called "official koi," symbolizing a smooth and prosperous official career. Therefore, the Tancho koi is also known as "good fortune."
4. Dragon and Phoenix Koi
Dragon and Phoenix Koi are a unique variety of Japanese koi bred in Taiwan. Their distinctive feature lies in their dragon-head and phoenix-tail design. The long, upright barbels resemble a majestic dragon, while the mouth and snout are adorned with vibrant patterns. When swimming, their pectoral fins flutter like long sleeves, resembling the dance of a phoenix; their elegant and graceful tail fins move like a dragon's tail or a colorful phoenix in flight, showcasing an exquisite beauty. Dragon and Phoenix Koi symbolize good fortune and auspiciousness. They possess distinct personalities, exceptional memories, and can develop a strong bond with their owners over time. Due to these qualities, Dragon and Phoenix Koi have become increasingly popular among fish enthusiasts in recent years.
5. Light writing koi
Hikari Koi, also known as Hikari-pi Hikari Koi, is a type of koi bred from Hikari Koi and Ogon Koi. Its body radiates a dazzling metallic sheen, covered in large, distinctive markings, giving it a unique charm. Hikari Koi can be divided into two categories: Kin Showa Koi and Kin Urohi Koi. The former is produced through hybridization of Showa Sanshoku Koi and Ogon Koi, exhibiting vibrant golden elements. There is also a Gin Showa Koi, whose body color has a silvery-white hue. The latter is derived from Kin Showa Koi and Ogon Koi. Hikari Koi are highly regarded for their outstanding appearance and are widely sought after by fish enthusiasts.
6. Showa Three-Colored Koi
Showa Sanshoku koi, which emerged during the Showa era in Japan, are divided into two types: traditional Showa and modern Showa. The traditional Showa type has less white area, while the modern Showa type has relatively more. This type of koi is covered with a large number of red patches all over its body. The red is even and full, and the edges of the patches are clear. The more intense the red, the higher the quality. The white parts should be pure white throughout. High-quality Showa Sanshoku koi should have white patches on their head and tail.
Excellent Showa Sanshoku koi should have a faceted black marking on the head, and triangular or lightning-shaped black markings on the body. These markings should be thick and extend to the abdomen. The pectoral fins should have a certain amount of black, rather than being completely white or black, and should not have red patches. This is one of the important criteria for judging quality.
7. Matsuba koi
The pine needle koi is a type of koi with a rich historical background. They are both beautiful and imbued with profound symbolism. These koi are covered in black markings; if white spots appear on their red scales, they are called white pine needle koi; if black spots appear on their red scales, they are called pine needle koi.
8. Autumn Green Koi
Autumn Green Koi are a breed bred from Asagi and German Apple Koi, possessing a unique charm. Their heads are a clear, pale blue without any blemishes, while their backs are a deep blue, resembling a clear, bright sky. Red spots adorn their noses, gills, bellies, and fins, adding a touch of brilliance and enhancing their overall appearance. Some well-known varieties of Autumn Green Koi include Hana Autumn Green and Hi Autumn Green, both exhibiting distinctive beauty and allure.
9. Golden Koi
These koi are characterized by their entirely golden-yellow appearance, with their neat scales shimmering like gold in the sunlight, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. When selecting a golden koi, look for one with an upright back, a steady and graceful swimming posture, full and not concave ends, and symmetrical and complete fins. The most distinctive feature of the golden koi is its golden hue; individuals with more vibrant and vivid colors are more visually appealing. Due to their magnificent appearance and the allure of their golden color, golden koi are highly sought after by fish enthusiasts.
10. Carp in Clothes
Kori koi are a breed developed from red and white or tri-color koi and asagi koi. They are named "Kori" because a faint blue hue is subtly visible beneath their red markings, as if they are wearing a thin veil. Kori koi are relatively easy to identify; simply observe whether the scales beneath the red markings have a bluish or deeper hue. It is precisely this classic beauty, this veil-like quality, that attracts many fish enthusiasts to their graceful appearance.
The ranking of the top ten koi varieties is based on information such as their living habits, distribution range, ornamental value, rarity, and popularity. This list is for reference only; please feel free to comment/discuss at the end if you have any questions.
