Utsurimono is a class of koi that, by definition, is a non-metallic black color combined with a secondary color. It is one of the classifications considered for judging purposes. Shiro Utsuri koi is the most common type in this class,More…
Language of Koi | Dissolved Oxygen Levels in Tanks and Ponds
Fish need oxygen! Adequate amounts of dissolved oxygen are crucial for all pond and fish life. Unfortunately, oxygen is one of the most overlooked parameters of water quality in the retail setting, as well as in koi ponds. Low dissolvedMore…
Language of Koi | Nishikigoi Bring a Slice of the Rainbow to the Pond
The pond build is complete! Water parameters are in check, and oxygen levels are adequate. Congratulations — you’ve created the ideal pond environment for your customer. The next step is to introduce koi into the pond because, after all, koiMore…
Language of Koi | Tips for Koi Selection
How many times have your pond customers asked for your help to select koi to purchase? What is the best way to help customers select koi fish to buy? There is no right or wrong way for customers to pickMore…
Language of Koi | Understanding Kohaku Patterns
A closer look at the popular red-and-white koi
In this article, you will learn about identifying the ever-popular Kohaku patterns. Both body and head patterns will be discussed. Armed with this knowledge, you can help your aquatic customers discern between the different patterns and select a fish thatMore…
The Top Six, Kohaku Head Patterns
(1) The Tancho pattern refers to a single hi spot that is exclusive to the head. No other hi plates are present on these koi. The lone hi patch should be circular and symmetrical and sit on the center ofMore…
Koi Differences | Understanding Hikari Utsuri & Hikari Moyo Koi
How to Distinguish Different Markings or Patterns with Hikari Koi
In the previous installment of Language of Koi, we learned how to distinguish between metallic and non-metallic skin on koi, as well as how to identify the characteristic known as luster. We also explored the single-colored, metallic-skinned koi in theMore…
Language of Koi: The Shiny, Hikari Muji Varieties
I’ve heard from some koi retailers that the shiny koi, or Hikari varieties, are usually the first to sell from their fish retail tanks. The shimmering beauty of all Hikari koi, whether single or multicolored, is eye-catching and very muchMore…
What is the Difference Between a Pond Pack and Bulk Pack
>> This blog post is reprinted with permission from Kloubec Koi. For years I’ve been helping koi enthusiasts find the perfect koi for their pond, or that special fish to add to a koi collection. I enjoy this, whether atMore…
Five Tips for Identifying Sanke and Showa Koi
Language of Koi
Many hobbyists love Sanke and Showa koi — the tri-colored koi that are white, red and black — yet they often struggle to distinguish one variety from the other. I am often asked, “Are they white fish with red andMore…