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Japanese Koi Fish - An Introduction to the Colorful Carp

The Japanese koi fish, also known as the colorful carp is an variety of the original carp. The word “koi” is derived from the Japanese language, simply meaning “carp.” Homophones of koi have a meaning of love and affection and symbolize friendship, love, courage and perseverance in Japan. Koi originated in the Central Europe and in Asia. Although they are famous in Japan, China is known to be home to the first koi.

Koi is one of the most beautiful fish any aquarium or pond owner can have. They come from a long history of being bred to become outstanding fishes that koi breeders and koi hobbyist can enjoy. Due to this breeding, koi fish also have a unique ability to survive in many climates.

Koi was first bred in Japan in the town of Ojiya on the north eastern coast in Honshu Island, in the 1820s. By the 20th century, numerous kinds and colors have been established, although the usual color was red and white -- Kohaku. These developed colors were basically unknown until 1914 at the annual exhibit in Tokyo. It was at this exhibit that many people began to take an interest in Koi and slowly it became in trenched into the Japan's culture.

The difference between a gold fish and a koi is its' size. A gold fish is usually smaller than a koi. Gold fishes are also known to have a great variety of body shapes, fins and tail configurations. On the other hand, koi fishes have only one body shape and lip barbell but more varieties of colors and patterns.

If you decide to adopt or buy a koi fish, it is always good to do some research first so your koi will be healthy, happy and live for a long time. The oldest koi on record is 228 years old.

When first introduced to koi fish many hobbyists are immediately drawn to the Kohaku because of its bright, beautiful color (white koi with red markings). But as time passed, they realized that there are many varieties to appreciate and love. Paying five hundred dollars or even five thousand dollars for a koi fish is not unheard off. It's the norm especially if the koi fish is imported, from a good bloodline or breeder, big and healthy.

Two great videos Koi: the living jewels and Hiroshima Dreaming: a journey to the koi farms of southern Japan are recommended if you want to see truly beautiful koi fish and understand the work Japanese breeders put behind every koi they raise.