Koi (
bahasa Tionghoa dan
bahasa Jepang: 鯉,
Romaji:
koi) adalah jenis
ikan karper Cyprinus carpio yang dipelihara untuk menghias rumah, berasal dari Tiongkok dan banyak tersebar di Jepang. Mereka berkerabat dekat dengan
ikan mas, dan karena itu banyak orang menyebutnya
ikan mas koi yang sebenarnya adalah misnomer. Koi dianggap membawa keberuntungan.
Jenis-Jenis Ikan Koi
Seiring
berkembangnya budidaya ikan koi, Jenis ikan koi mengalami perkembangan
dan pertumbuhan menjadi banyak jenis. Jenis-jenis ini didasarkan pada
pola warna koi, sisik dan lain-lain. Pada akhirnya banyak sekali
jenis-jenis ikan koi yang disusun dalam klasifikasi ikan koi sebagai
identifikasi. Dalam masing-masing kelas ini ada beberapa sub Kategori
yang ragamnya juga cukup banyak . Klasifikasi Ikan Koi yang umum terdiri
atas tipe Koi Gosanke, Shiro, Utsurimono, Asagi, Tancho, Hikarimono,
Goromo, Hikarimoyo, Matsuba, dan Kawarimono. Berikut ini adalah
pembahasan mengenai masing-masing jenis pada klasifikasi koi:
1. Gosanke ( Kohaku - Sanke - Showa )
Klasifikasi
Koi Gosanke merupakan Koi yang paling populer dan banyak ditemukan di
kalangan para penggemar Koi. Yang termasuk dalam kategori ini adalah
Kohaku, Sanke, dan Showa. Keluarga Gosanke merupakan kombinasi Koi
dengan warna Hitam, Merah dan putih. Kecuali Kohaku yang tidak memiliki
unsur warna hitam.
1.1. Kohaku
Kohaku
merupakan Koi dengan warna Merah dan Putih. Pola merah disebut Hi. Hi
harus tebal dengan tepi yang baik. Ada berbagai macam perbedaan pola
warna Kohaku . Ada yang putus, ada yang besar dan menyapu.Kohaku yang
baik memilikii pola yang tidak turun melewati mata dan seimbang.
Kohaku boleh
dikatakan paling populer di antara varietas koi. Ini bisa dimaklumi
sebab corak warna-nya langsung mengingatkan orang pada bendera
ke-bangsaan Jepang. Dan tidaklah berlebihan bila Kohaku dianggap
sebagai koi yang “pertama dan terakhir”, karena umumnya pertama kali
orang akan memilih Kohaku, lalu berpindah-pindah varietas,lantas
pada akhirnya kembali lagi pada Kohaku.
Untuk
mencapai coraknya yang sekarang, di-butuhkan waktu yang lama untuk
menghasilkan Kohaku. Dari seekor koi berwarna hitam lahirlah koi
berpipi merah lewat suatu mutasi, yang lantas ngetop dengan nama
“Hookazuki”. Pada tahun 1800, dari “Hookazuki” ini lahirlah seekor koi
berwarna putih. Koi berwarna putih ini lantas dikawin-kan dengan
Higoi, lahirlah Haraka, yaitu koi putih dengan bercak-bercak merah.
Haraka sendiri ber-arti berperut merah (Red belly). Kemudian
ber-turut-turut lahirlah Hoo-Aka (berpipi merah), Era-Hi (berinsang
merah). Sejak 1830 muncullah koi dengan sebagian kepala berwarna merah
(Zukin-kaburi), koi berbibir merah (Kuchibeni), dan Sarasa yang
mempunyai punggung berwarna merah dan putih. Pendek kata pada jaman
Meiji, Kohaku sudah dikenal luas dan mulai dikembangkan secara khusus.
Warna merah pada Kohaku menjadi pusat perhatian untuk menentukan kualitas
Kohaku. Dan warna putihnya harus bersih seperti warna salju, tidak boleh
putih kekuningan, atau putih kecokelatan. Sedangkan untuk warna merah,
yang dikehendaki adalah merah pekat tetapi cerah (terang).
Banyak
ragam Kohaku. Jenis-jenisnya di antara-nya dibedakan berdasarkan
banyaknya bercak merah pada punggungnya.
1.2. Sanke
Sanke
merupakan koi seperti pola Kohaku (hitam putih) , tetapi mereka
memiliki pola hitam di sepanjang punggung mereka. Pola hitam disebut
Sumi. Mencari Sanke yang baik adalah seperti memiliki pola Hi Kohaku .
Pola hitam tidak boleh muncul di kepala . Sanke merupakan persilangangan
Kohaku dengan Shiro Bekko.
1.3. Showa
Showa
merupakan Koi dengan warna Putih, Hitam dan Merah. Showa biasanya
merupakan hasil persilangan antara Kohaku dan Shiro Utsuri.
2. Bekko
2.1. Shiro Bekko
Shiro
Bekko adalah jenis Koi berkulit putih dengan pola hitam kecil-kecil.
Pola (hitam) sumi pada Shiro Bekko harus seimbang dan memiliki tepi
tajam (Kiwa). Shiro Utsuri dan Shiro Bekko memiliki kemiripan, karena
pola warnanya sama. Perbedaan antara Shiro Bekko Dan Shiro Utsuri adalah
pada Shiro Utsuri memiliki pola warna hitam yang lebih besar hitam
sedangkan Shiro Bekko memiliki sedikit warna hitam.
2.2. Ki Bekko
Ki
Bekko merupakan Koi berwarna kuning dengan pola hitam di atasnya.
Seperti halnya Shiro Bekko, tapi warna dasarnya kuning cerah. Pola
(hitam) sumi pada Ki Bekko harus seimbang dan memiliki tepi (kiwa)
tajam. Ki Bekko agak jarang daripada sepupu nya, Shiro Bekko.
2.3. Aka Bekko
Aka Bekko merupakan koi merah dengan pola hitam di atasnya. Warna hitam membentuk spot yang menarik dan indah.
3. UTSURIMONO
3.1. Shiro Utsuri
Shiro
Utsuri, merupakan koi hitam dan putih dengan pola warna yang unik dan
menarik. Bagian kepala Shiro utsuri terdiri atas warna hitam dan putih,
tidak boleh hanya terdiri atas satu warna saja( Hitam saja atau putih
saja). Berbeda dengan shiro bekko, shiro utsuri merupakan koi dengan
warnadasar hitam.
3.2. Ki Utsuri
Ki
Utsuri hampir sama dengan Shiro Utsuri, hanya saja warna pada Ki Utsuri
adalah kuning dan Hitam. Pola warna dan kriteria penilaian sama dengan
Shiro Utsuri.
3.3. Hi Utsuri
Hi Utsuri merupakan Koi dengan warna merah dan hitam yang membentuk pola unik dan menarik.
4. ASAGI
Asagi
merupakan jenis koi yang sudah cukup lama keberadaannya. Asagi
merupakan Koi Biru dengan perut berwarna merah, keindahan asagi ada pada
pola yang utama adalah sisik yang nampak seperti pola berupa jaring
tipis diatas warna dasar indigo. Idealnya Asagi memiliki kepala yang
putih bersih.
5. SHUSUI
Shusui
merupakan jenis koi dari keluarga asagi namun tidak memiliki sisik.
Sisik pada shusui hanya ada pada bagian punggung saja. Warna sisik
idealnya berwarna gelap dan ada sepanjang punggung secara lengkap dan
rapi.
6. Goromo / Koromo
6.1. Ai goromo
6.2. Budo Goromo
6.3. Sumi Goromo
7. Kawarimono
Ochiba Shigure
Kumonryu
Beni Kumonryu
Benigoi
Karasugoi
8. Goshiki / Kin Gin Rin
9. Hikarimoyo
Kin ShowaKujakuYamato NishikiDoitsu HariwakeKikusui
10. Hikarimono
Hikarimono
adalah metallic Koi atau koi dengan warna keemasan yang kemilau. Warna
Hikarimono adalah warna tunggal misalnya kuning kemilau, orange dan
lain-lain. Disebut juga dengan Hikarimuji . Hikari berarti mengkilap.
- Nezu Ogon, Koi dengan warna abu-abu kemilau
- Orenji Ogon, Koi dengan warna orange kemilau
- Platinum Ogon, Koi putih kemilau/silver
- Yamabuki Ogon, Koi Berwarna Kuning kemilau
5. Tancho
TANCHO GOROMO
Tancho Goromo merupakan koi yang memiliki pola bulat pada bagian kepala, yang berupa pola Goromo/anggur.
TANCHO KOHAKU
Tancho
Kohaku merukana koi putih dengan bulatan merah di kepala. Semakin bulat
dan tajam semakin menambah keindahan koi jenis ini.
TANCHO GOSHIKI
Tancho Goshiki memiliki pola tancho di kepala dengan warna dan sisik badan adalah koi jenis goshiki.
TANCHO KUJAKU
TANCHO SANKE
9. Matsuba
- Shiro Matsuba
- Aka Matsuba
11. Haijiro
Aka HaijiroChagoiKigoiMidorigoiSoragoi
1 Kohaku
Kohaku are still the most popular koi variety in Japan and potentially the most valuable.
One of the most quoted phrases in koi keeping is that the hobbyist
begins with Kohaku and ends with Kohaku. In fact, many new hobbyists
overlook the Kohaku in preference for the brightly colored Ogon and
other metallic koi because they feel that Kohaku look too much like
goldfish! However, as they begin to appreciate the colors and patterns
of koi, hobbyists often turn to Kohaku because of their simplicity and
elegance.
History Red and white koi appeared in Japan
between 1804 and 1829, when the offspring of a black carp was found to
have red cheeks. She was called Hookazuki and her white offspring were
bred with a Higoi, a red fish, to produce koi with red stomachs. By
1829, a koi with red gill plates called Hoo Aka had been produced, and
between 1830 and 1849 several different patterns appeared, including
Zukinkaburi (red forehead), Menkaburi (red head), Kuchibeni (red lips)
and Sarasa (red spot on back). The breeding of Kohaku continued and
varieties were improved, especially in Niigata region, now considered
the birthplace of koi keeping. In about 1888, a gentleman called Gosuke
bought a Hachi Hi, a red headed female, and bred it with his Sokura
Kana, a cherry blossom patterned male. It is believed that the modern
Kohaku was developed from the offspring of these koi.
Colors Kohakus are white koi with red (hi)
markings. Ideally, the hi should have a good depth of color but, more
importantly, the color should be of a uniform shade and the edge of the
hi pattern should be well defined. This definition between white and hi
markings is known as "kiwa". There appear to be two types of coloration.
The purplish red hi is dark and does not fade easily. This color is
considered to lack elegance and tends to splatter over the koi. Brownish
red hi can produce a very fine, almost translucent, color but tends to
fade easily. The white should be the color of fresh snow and free from
blemishes. A poor white, which can be dirty yellow in appearance, will
spoil an otherwise good Kohaku because the hi pattern will not stand
out.The unity and balance of color and pattern on a Kohaku are of the
utmost importance. As a general guideline, the hi should cover between
50 and 70 percent of the koi.
Patterns Because Kohaku appears as such a
simple koi in terms of coloration, the criteria by which they are judged
is severe. The pattern is the last thing to consider when the koi is
being judged but is probably the most discussed. Balance over the whole
of the koi's body is the key to any pattern.
Head On any Kohaku the hi pattern begins on
the head. The traditional head pattern for the hi is a large U shape,
which should reach down as far as the eyes. If the hi does not reach the
eyes, the pattern can be balanced by "kuchibeni" or lipstick like
markings. A hi marking that reaches the mouth is know as "hanatsuki" and
a pattern that spreads over the face is called "menkaburi". Recently,
koi keepers have begun to appreciate Kohaku with interesting or
irregular shaped marking on the head.
Body Large hi markings are preferred to
small hi markings. A break in the pattern is preferred between the back
of the head and the shoulder. Variation is also important. Koi grow from
the abdomen, so when selecting a young Kohaku, look for a large pattern
of hi. Balance of pattern over the body of the koi is most important. A
Kohaku that has most of its hi pattern at the front of its body lacks
balance and elegance.
Patterns Inazuma: This is a continuous
pattern, extending from the head to the tail, but with a zig zag look.
Inazuma literally means lightning. Nidan: Nidan means two and this koi
has two hi markings. Sandan This Koi has three hi markings. Yondan: This
Kohaku has four hi markings. Goten-zakura: This koi has a
cherry-blossom pattern. The hi is dappled and looks like clusters of
grapes. Kanoko: This fish actually is classified in the Kawarimono class
and not Kohaku in shows. The head hi is solid but the body hi is
dappled.
Tail The end of the pattern is as important
as the beginning. On a perfectly marked Kohaku, the hi pattern ends
just before the tail joint.
FinsSnow white fins are the perfect
accompaniment to the red on white pattern of a large koi. As a general
rule, hi extending into the fins is considered detrimental to the koi's
markings. Hi in the pelvic fins is not a problem because it cannot be
seen when the koi is judged.
Scalation Scalation should be even all over
the body of the koi. The Japanese prefer hi that is strong enough to
disguise the individual scales. Scales that are visible because the hi
is thin are known as "kokesuki". A Kohaku of any pattern with scales
only along the dorsal and lateral lines is known as a Doitsu Kohaku.
2 Taisho Sanshoku (Sanke)
General Description
'Taisho Sanshoku', or 'sanke' is the term applied to a koi that has a white body with red and black markings. The black
markings are in the form of spots that are generally confined to the body above the lateral line. Sanke as a koi breed was
established around 1917.
Appreciation Criteria
The criteria for appreciating or judging a Sanke is the same as those of a Kohaku, with the addition of criteria for its black
markings. In fact, it is said that a good Sanke is actually a good Kohaku that has been further enhanced by black spots
that add elegance to the totality of the koi.
Color
The shiro (white) base color of the body must be unblemished, thick, snowy, and even milky. The shiro must not exhibit
any yellowish tint.
The hi (red) markings on the white body must be solid, deep, and evenly-colored throughout the entire body. The edges of
these markings (also known as the 'kiwa') must be very defined, or as they say, 'sharp as a razor.'
The hi color may vary from koi to koi, but it should be of uniform hue within an individual koi. Different koi exhibit
different hues, from a deep persimmon orange to dark, purplish red. This entire range is acceptable, although judges
invariably have their own preferences.
The sumi (black) markings of a Sanke must be deep, solid, and shiny lacquer-black. The shape of every sumi spot must be
clearly defined, with its kiwa or edges as sharp as possible. Undeveloped sumi (also known as 'sashi') may appear mottled
dark blue or gray instead of solid black. This is not bad for a young koi, since sumi actually develops as the koi grows
older. In fact, spotting a potential champion at a young age involves good anticipation of how well the sumi will develop in
the next few years.
Pattern
The red and black markings on the white body must be artistically balanced. This means that a certain color must not be
confined to one side or one end of the koi only.
The red-over-white pattern may be continuous or 'stepped', but the over-all effect of white and red balancing each other
should be the ultimate consideration. Many people prefer stepped koi and understandably so, since this pattern ensures
red and white alternating with each other. Sanke with a 'hi' pattern that runs continuously from head to tail is known as
'aka sanke'. Aka sanke is less desired, since the predominantly red body makes it look heavy.
A white area separating the tail and the red marking nearest the tail is known as a tail stop, and is considered desirable. A
red mark on the lips of a koi (also known as 'kuchibeni') is a 'plus' if it enhances the over-all package of the koi.
A good sanke has a red pattern (but absolutely no black color) on the head. The head pattern must extend slightly beyond
the eyes but should not reach the nose or lips, leaving a white area in the front end of the head. A fully red head (referred
to as 'menkaburi') that makes the koi look 'hooded' is considered negative. Nonetheless, some koi look good despite
having it, so don't let it prevent you from buying a koi that you like.
A round patch of red on the head is considered nice. If this red patch is the only red marking on the sanke, then the koi is
called a 'tancho sanke', a highly-prized koi variety among the Japanese since it looks like their national bird. If there are
other red markings on the body of the koi, then the round head patch makes it a 'maruten' sanke.
The sumi of a sanke must be distributed in the koi body such that they collectively add balance to the koi. Their presence
should enhance the 'kohaku pattern' and not degrade it. Old-style sanke koi are heavily endowed with sumi. Modern
sanke exhibit a sparser distribution of sumi, but these should be clearly defined and solid black nonetheless. Koi experts
also prefer sumi spots that are positioned over the white body. Conversely, sumi spots over hi markings are less desirable
to them.
3 Showa Sanshoku (Showa)
General Description
'Showa Sanshoku', or 'showa' is the term applied to a koi that has a black body with red and white markings. This
definition is confusing to beginners, since modern showa clearly shows that it also has a white body with red and black
markings, just like a sanke. This definition came from the early history of showa. When this breed emerged and was
established, it was predominantly black. At that time, most breeders keep this breed for its 'blackness.' Nowadays,
hobbyists prefer a more balanced mix of red, white, and black.
The difference between a sanke and a showa is in the appearance of the sumi markings. Sanke sumi tend to be in the
form of spots generally confined to the body above the lateral line, while showa sumi appear to be relatively larger streaks
that 'wrap' around the body (going below the lateral line) as well as extend into the head.
Showa as a koi breed was established around 1920, during the Showa Emperor Era.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The shiro (white) base color of the body must be unblemished, thick,
snowy, and even milky. The shiro must not exhibit any yellowish tint.
The hi (red) markings on the white body must be solid, deep, and
evenly-colored throughout the entire body. The edges of these markings
(also known as the 'kiwa') must be very defined, or as they say, 'sharp
as a razor.'
The hi color may vary from koi to koi, but it should be of uniform
hue within an individual koi. Different koi exhibit different hues, from
a deep persimmon orange to dark, purplish red. This entire range is
acceptable, although judges invariably have their own preferences.
The sumi (black) markings of a Showa must be deep, solid, and shiny
lacquer-black. The shape of every sumi marking must be clearly defined,
with its kiwa or edges as sharp as possible. Undeveloped sumi may appear
mottled dark blue or gray instead of solid black. This is not bad for a
young koi, since sumi actually develops as the koi grows older. In
fact, spotting a potential champion at a young age involves good
anticipation of how well the sumi will develop in the next few years.
Pattern
The red and black markings on the white body must be artistically
balanced. This means that a certain color must not be confined to one
side or one end of the koi only. A good example of excellent showa
pattern is if the black, red, and white colors are interspersed in a
'checkerboard' pattern.
The red-over-white pattern may be continuous or 'stepped', but the
over-all effect of white and red balancing each other should be the
ultimate consideration. Many people prefer stepped koi and
understandably so, since this pattern ensures red and white alternating
with each other. Showa with a large percentage of its body covered by
'hi' with very little shiro is known as 'hi showa'. Hi showa is less
desired, since the predominantly red body makes it look heavy.
A white area separating the tail and the red marking nearest the tail
is known as a tail stop, and is considered desirable. A red mark on the
lips of a koi (also known as 'kuchibeni') is a 'plus' if it enhances
the over-all package of the koi.
A good showa must have all three colors on its head. Lightning-shaped
sumi that streaks across the head and divides it into two is desirable.
This sumi head marking is known as a 'menware.' A V-shaped sumi pattern
on the shoulder of a showa is also desired. It used to be that judges
look for both a menware and this V-shaped shoulder sumi in a showa, but
nowadays the presence of only one of these is acceptable.
If a round red patch on the head is the only red marking on the
showa, then the koi is called a 'tancho showa', a highlyprized koi
variety among the Japanese since it looks like their national bird. If
there are other red markings on the body of the koi, then the round head
patch makes it a 'maruten' showa.
The sumi of a showa must be distributed in the koi body such that
they collectively add balance to the koi. Their presence should enhance
the 'kohaku pattern' and not degrade it. Old-style showa koi are heavily
endowed with sumi. Modern showa (also known as 'kindai showa') exhibit a
sparser distribution of sumi, but these should be clearly defined and
solid black nonetheless.
The base of the pectoral fins of a showa must be black. This black
base area of pectoral fins is known as 'motoguro.' The more defined and
confined to the base it is, the better.
4 Doitsu
General Description
'Doitsu' is the term applied to a koi that either: 1) has no scales
at all; or 2) has scales only along the dorsal fin and maybe along the
lateral line as well. Doitsu came about from the cross-breeding of
Japanese koi with the German 'leather' carp, which doesn't have scales.
As such, almost all koi breeds have their own 'doitsu' version.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
All color criteria pertaining to a non-doitsu (scaled) breed are applicable to the doitsu version.
Pattern
All pattern criteria pertaining to a non-doitsu (scaled) breed are applicable to the doitsu version.
5 Kin Gin Rin
General Description
'Kin Gin Rin' is the term applied to a koi whose scales exhibit a
sparkling effect. 'Kin gin rin' translates to 'gold and silver scales'. A
koi with only shining silver scales is referred to as 'ginrin', while
one with only shining golden scales is referred to as 'kinrin'. All
varieties of koi can have sparkling scales, so each koi variety has
kinginrin variants or specimens.
A chemical deposit in the scales of the koi make them 'sparkle.'
Sparkling scales were first discovered in 1929 and was called 'gingoke'
by Esaburo Hochino.
According to an article by Douglas Dahl: "There are four types Kin
Gin Rin scales. Pearl Gin Rin has a sparkle deposit in the center of
each scale like a pearl. Diamond Gin Rin or Hiroshima Gin Rin looks like
brushed aluminum sparkle. Beta-Gin is where the whole scale sparkles
and is the most valued type. Kado-Gin has only the aft edge of each
scale covered with this sparkling deposit."
Some experts still debate on whether kinginrin scales add beauty to a
koi or lessen it. Indeed, in some koi the kinginrin scalation
diminishes some of its strong points such as its color strength. On the
other hand, excellent kinginrin scalation can make an otherwise simply
average koi stunningly beautiful. In the final analysis therefore, one
can say that it really depends on how the sparkling scalation of a
kinginrin specimen contributes to the total package of the koi. A kin
gin rin koi is better appreciated under sunlight.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The color criteria used in judging non-kinginrin counterparts of
kinginrin koi apply. In addition, the glitter or sparkle of the
kinginrin scales must be very intense. The kinginrin scales must
likewise be evenly and generously distributed on the back
of the koi.
Pattern
The pattern criteria used in judging non-kinginrin counterparts of kinginrin koi apply.
6 Goshiki
General Description
'Goshiki' is the term applied to a koi that has a white base color
with black-and-blue reticulation, overlaid by Kohaku-like red patterns.
Reticulation refers to scales that form a net-like appearance.
The word 'goshiki' translates to 'five colors.' The original goshiki
was developed from the sanke and asagi. Thus, the 'five colors' of the
goshiki are the red, black, and white of the sanke and the gray and blue
of the asagi.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The shiro (white) base color of the body must be unblemished, thick,
snowy, and even milky underneath the black-andblue reticulation of the
scales.
The hi (red) markings on the white body must be solid, deep, and
evenly-colored throughout the entire body. The edges of these markings
(also known as the 'kiwa') must be very defined, or as they say, 'sharp
as a razor.' The hi color may vary from koi to koi, but it should be of
uniform hue within an individual koi. The red markings must not be
blemished by any black spots.
Pattern
The red markings on the body must be artistically balanced. This
means that they must not be confined to one side or one end of the koi
only.
The reticulation effect on the white base color of the goshiki must
exhibit a perfect netting effect that is visibly sharp and nicely
distributed. Goshiki koi with perfect reticulation on snow-white body
are very desirable. A clean and unblemished head is also a sought-after
trait of a goshiki.
7 Hikari Utsuri
General Description
'Hikari Utsuri' is the term applied to the metallic version of the
Showa and Utsuri. The term 'hikari' translates to
'metallic.' This koi class includes the Kin Showa (metallic Showa with a
golden shine), the Gin Showa (metallic Showa with
a silver shine), the Gin Shiro (metallic Shiro Utsuri), the Kin Ki
Utsuri (metallic Ki Utsuri), and the Kin Hi Utsuri (metallic Hi
Utsuri).
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The color of a hikari utsuri koi must be unblemished, uniform, dense, and shiny. Luster of the skin is an important
consideration for this koi type.
Pattern
The pattern criteria for Showa and Utsuri are applicable to Hikari Utsuri. In addition, luster of the skin and fins (especially
the pectoral fins) is important.
8 Hikarimoyo
Metallic koi that have more than one colour, but are not of Utsuri
lineage, generally fall into this class. Hikarimoyo-mono derivation
comes from two sources. One being Platnium Ogon crossed with many other
varieties - except Utsuri, resulting in varieties such as Gin Bekko and
Kujaku. The other group consisting of two colours - platnium, gold or
orange - collectively known a Hariwake.. Examples are Orenji Hariwake
and Hariwake Matsuba.
9 Hikari Mujimono
General Description
'Hikari Mujimono', or simply 'Hikarimuji', is the term applied to a
metallic koi of single color. The term 'hikari' translates to
'metallic.' Examples of hikarimuji koi are the platinum ogon or
purachina, the yamabuki ogon (light yellow), and the orenji ogon
(orange).
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The color of a hikarimuji must be unblemished, uniform, dense, and
shiny. Luster of the skin is an important consideration for this koi
type.
Pattern
In the absence of patterns on a hikarimuji koi, one simply has to
ensure that the head is very clear, i.e., unblemished by black spots and
other imperfections. The body, on the other hand, must be of uniform
color and also unblemished. As mentioned earlier, luster of the scales
and fins (especially the pectoral fins) is important.
10 Kage
Kage translates as ‘shadow’ this describes the shadow effect on the edge of the koi’s scales.
11 Kawarimono
General Description
'Kawarigoi' or 'Kawarimono' is the term applied to a koi that can not
be classified into any of the standard koi types. Since this is a
'catch-all' category, a lot of established koi varieties fall under it.
An article by Douglas Dahl entitled 'Koi Classification and Judging
Criteria' has given a good description of what this large koi category
covers. Quoting the article:
"Included are all of the Karasugoi or crow carp family that are black
with various white markings on the body and fins. Depending on how much
white you have Hajiro (black with white only on the tail and pectoral
fin tips), Hageshiro (black with white on tail and pectoral fin tips and
on the head), Yotsushiro (Hageshiro with all white head), Kumonryu
(Doitsu koi with killer whale pattern) and Matsukawabake (koi that
changes from black to gray depending on water temperature forming a net
black pattern).
There is a very new koi that has been put into Kawarimono due to lack
of a better place because it is metallic and does not belong in
Kawarimono. This is the Bene(red) Kumonryu called Kikokuryu. It is a
metallic Kumonryu with a red pattern. It probably should be moved to
Hikarimoyo because the black looks metallic so it has black, white and
red metallic colors. Next in favor is Goshiki meaning 5 colors that are
white with a red Kohaku pattern and two shades of blue and black netting
not only on the red but also on the white. Cool water makes the colors
darken. It is important for Goshiki to have a clean red and white head
with no sumi markings.
The next favorite is the Chagoi or brown/green tea colored carp.
These koi grow fast and very large and become the favorite in the pond
by their gluttony. Also in solid colors are the Kigoi (yellow koi),
Soragoi (gray blue koi), Midorigoi (green koi), Benigoi (red koi), Aka
Hijiro ( red koi with white fin tips) and Shiro Muji (white koi). Next
is a very recent cross between Chagoi and Kohaku or Asagi called Ochiba
Shigure. This koi reminds people of autumn leaves because the hi shows
up as a bright mustard pattern on a gray body with black netting over
the whole body. The Doitsu version of Ochiba Shigure has been called
“antique” due to the colors.
The next group is the Kanoko group. Kanoko means “fawn” describing a
dappled Kohaku red pattern that looks like cherry blossoms. This group
includes Kanoko Kohaku, Kanoko Sanke and Kanoko Showa.
The next group are the Kage (robed)group. They include Kage Shiro
Utsuri, Kage Hi Utsuri, and Kage Showa. The last group are the
non-metallic Matsuba koi. They are Aka (red) Matsuba, Ki Matsuba and
Shiro Matsuba. There are also Doitsu versions of all of the above."
Appreciation Criteria
Color
Due to the large number of koi varieties under the category of
'Kawarigoi', this page can not describe the color criteria specific to
each of them. However, the color criteria discussed in other pages for
mainstream koi varieties generally apply to kawarigoi as well. Thus,
colors must be deep and solid, with no signs of fading, blurring,
spotting, or unwanted tinting anywhere. The shade, hue, and quality of
the colors must be consistent throughout the koi.
Pattern
Due to the large number of koi varieties under the category of
'Kawarigoi', this page can not describe the pattern criteria specific to
each of them. However, the pattern criteria discussed in other pages
for mainstream koi varieties generally apply to kawarigoi with pattern
markings as well. For example, markings on the body must be artistically
balanced. This means that they must not be confined to one side or one
end of the koi only. As in any other koi, the markings on a kawarigoi
must enhance the total beauty package of the koi.
12 Asagi
General Description
'Asagi' is the term applied to a fully reticulated koi that exhibits a
blue color above its lateral line, and accented by red markings on its
underside. Reticulation refers to scales that form a net-like
appearance. Thus, an asagi exhibits a bluish net pattern all over the
top portion of its body. This reticulation is created by the asagi's
blue scales which are surrounded by white edges.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The Asagi's body must be blue in color above the lateral line. The
blue color must be of even shade and hue within a single koi, although
it may vary from one koi to another. Depending on the bloodline of the
koi, the blue color may be dark (almost blue-gray) or light (very light
blue) in appearance. Many hobbyists prefer the lighter shade of blue.
Aside from the blue color of the asagi above its lateral line, it
must have red coloration on the underside of the its body, just below
the lateral line. This red color may also appear on all fins, the gill
covers, and mouth.
Pattern
The most important aspect of judging asagi koi is the quality of the
reticulation over its blue body. The reticulation effect comes from the
lighter color of the edge of each blue scale. If the scales are lined up
in straight rows, they exhibit a perfect netting effect that looks very
beautiful. Asagi koi with perfect reticulation are therefore desirable,
while those with uneven or interrupted reticulation are held in much
lower esteem.
The red colorations of an asagi must provide a balanced accent to the
total package of the koi. A clean and unblemished head is also a
sought-after trait of an asagi.
13 Koromo
General Description
'Koromo', which translates to 'robed', is the term applied to a koi
that has a white base color, overlaid by red patterns with reticulation.
Reticulation refers to scales that form a net-like appearance. In the
case of Koromo, these net-like patterns are created by the blue edges of
the scales over the red markings. Koromo is basically a cross between
Kohaku and Asagi.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The shiro (white) base color of the body must be unblemished, thick,
snowy, and even milky. The shiro must not exhibit any yellowish tint.
The hi (red) markings on the white body must be solid, deep, and
evenly-colored throughout the entire body. The edges of these markings
(also known as the 'kiwa') must be very defined, or as they say, 'sharp
as a razor.' The hi color may vary from koi to koi, but it should be of
uniform hue within an individual koi.
Pattern
The red markings on the body must be artistically balanced. This
means that they must not be confined to one side or one end of the koi
only. An equal distribution of shiro and hi is preferred, so in general a
koi heavily marked with red or predominantly white in color is not
desired.
The reticulation effect on the red markings comes from the dark blue
color of the edge of each red scale. If the scales are lined up in
straight rows, they exhibit a perfect netting effect that looks very
beautiful. Koromo koi with perfect reticulation on the red markings are
therefore desirable. A clean and unblemished head is also a sought-after
trait of a koromo.
14 Bekko
General Description
'Bekko' is the term applied to a koi that has a single base color of
white (shiro bekko), or red (aka bekko), or yellow (ki bekko). Over this
base color are black markings in the form of spots generally confined
to the body above the lateral line.
Bekko is to sanke as utsuri is to showa. Thus, all criteria that
apply to sanke sumi quality and pattern are applicable to bekko sumi.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
The base color (whether shiro, aka, or ki) of the body must be
unblemished, thick, rich, and of uniform hue and quality. The base color
must not exhibit any sign of tint of a different color.
The sumi (black) markings of a bekko must be deep, solid, and shiny
lacquer-black. The shape of every sumi spot must be clearly defined,
with its kiwa or edges as sharp as possible. Undeveloped sumi (also
known as 'sashi') may appear mottled dark blue or gray instead of solid
black. This is not bad for a young koi, since sumi actually develops as
the koi grows older.
Pattern
The base color and black markings of a bekko must be artistically
balanced. This means that a certain color must not be confined to one
side or one end of the koi only.
The sumi of a bekko must be distributed in the koi body such that
they collectively add balance to the koi. Old-style bekko koi are
heavily endowed with sumi. Modern bekko koi exhibit a sparser
distribution of sumi, but these should be clearly defined and solid
black nonetheless. An important consideration in choosing a bekko is the
cleanliness of its head.
15 Chagoi
Cha-goi are part of the Kawarimono class. "Cha" means brown, or
tea-coloured. Cha-goi are single coloured, nonmetallic koi which is said
to be extremely fast growing. Although this variety seems quite plain
at first glance, the reticulated scalation is quite attractive. There is
also a Gin Rin variety which is appealing to most koi keepers. Cha-goi
are one of the most easily tamed of all koi and a pleasure to have in
one's pond.
16 Tancho
General Description
'Tancho' is the term applied to a Kohaku, Sanke, or Showa whose only
red marking is a round patch of red on the head. Tancho koi are
highly-prized among hobbyists, especially the Japanese, because they
resemble Japan's flag and national bird. No other red marking must
appear anywhere else. The red patch must be as round as possible, and
should not reach the shoulder nor the nose of the fish.
Appreciation Criteria
Color
All color criteria applicable to non-Tancho Kohaku, Sanke, or Showa are applicable to the Tancho type.
Pattern
All pattern criteria applicable to non-Tancho Kohaku, Sanke, or Showa
are applicable to the Tancho type with the addition of one rule: no
other red marking must appear on the koi except for the round patch on
the Tancho's head. The head patch must be as round as possible. It must
also be centered between the eyes, and must not extend to the nose or to
the shoulder of the koi.
17 Utsuri
General Description
'Utsuri' is the term applied to a koi that has a single base color of
white (shiro utsuri), or red (hi utsuri), or yellow (ki utsuri). Over
this base color are black markings that 'wrap' around the body (going
below the lateral line) as well as extend into the head. Utsuri is to
showa as bekko is to sanke. Thus, all criteria that apply to showa sumi
quality and pattern are applicable to utsuri sumi. Utsuri was
established around 1925.
