If you are looking forward to buying a Japanese koi fish then you might already know that there are many varieties to the koi fish. They can come in many different styles and colors but one thing remains the same in all of them, they are all equally beautiful. There are over 17 different varieties with each one having their own patterns, colors, and designs. Which can make the process for buying a koi fish quite confusing because you might not know exactly which style to purchase. Well this article can tell you about some of the different styles in which a koi fish can come in.

The first color variety that was established and perfected by the Japanese in the early 19th century was the Kohaku. This fish is a white with beautiful overlaying red patterns with many shapes and sizes. Usually if there are any other colors present on the fish it can be called a pure khoaku. Like all koi the body shape and fin size appearance most be of superior quality before color and patters can be established. The best quality kohaku of course have brilliant red markings, which are called Hi by the Japanese.

In a show fish these markings should never extend past the nostrils, fins, or any other lateral line. The edges should be sharp and show no signs of fading or blending. By finding the ideal Koharku just keep in mind that there most be a good distribution and intensity of the Hi.

Taisho sanke first appeared in the early 1900s. Some believe that the color variety is a product of the Kohaku and the Magoi bred together to make a tri-colored fish. Usually this fish has a small portion of black pigmentation or Sumi over its body. The most favorable feature is when it has a large Sumi on its shoulder. When the Sumi appears on the head of the Taisho are not eligible for competition.

Another form of the sanke is a showa, which came around in the 1927. The showa is a black koi with a Hi and white color imposed over its body. A famous Japanese koi breeder named Jukichi Hoshino discovered this unique breed. By taking a Kohaku and a Ki- Usturi he developed this strain which was further refined over the years. This unique color is now considered one of the “ BIG THREE” in Japan.

Well now that you have read some of the most common types of koi fish you might be a bit excited. Especially if you believe you might have a competition koi on your hands. Try not to get too excited because there are more koi in the running. In the next article I will tell you about the Utsuri Mono, the Bekko and many more.