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 and black markings, or black fish with red and white markings? How do I tell the […]
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Language of Koi The Koromo or Robed Koi is a fairly new variety. Developed between 1945 – 1950 in Japan, the variety emerged as a by-product of Goshiki breeding. Both varieties, Koromo and Goshiki, are grouped together for judging purposes and compete against each other at most koi shows. Koromo are white, non-metallic koi having […]
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Doitsu koi are gaining in popularity with backyard pond owners. These koi without scales truly are a beautiful addition to any koi pond or collection. They stand out brilliantly in pond water due to the absence of scales, bright colors and a dramatic overall appearance. Metallic-variety Doitsu koi usually have dazzling iridescent skin, which can […]
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We all know that stress is a part of everyday life, and you probably have your own methods of coping with it. Although you may not realize it, koi experience trauma related to stress as well. Because of their size, koi appear to be very hardy fish, and they are — as long as their […]
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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, and it is held in very high regard. At some koi shows in the United […]
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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 dissolved oxygen (DO) is an underestimated cause of many fish losses. As a koi seller, it […]
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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, koi are the highlight of the water garden experience. They really are living jewels. Just like […]
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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 pick or select koi that they’d like to buy. Everyone has an opinion and personal taste […]
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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 that they desire to purchase. Kohaku is one of the most popular varieties of koi. Often […]
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>> Feature Article | Language of Koi: Understanding Kohaku 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 of the koi’s head. Ideally, it […]
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