What is commonly referred to as "koi" is a short term for the Japanese word
nishikigoi, that literally means brocaded (or adorned) carp. A domesticated
version of the common carp, koi fish is usually seen in outdoor ponds or water
gardens where their wide varieties of colors are showcased. There are many
different types of koi available and koi hobbyists are continuously developing
new types featuring a vast array of beautiful colors and patterns.
One of the
most popular types is the Gosanke, which is a broad term used for three common
types of koi: kohaku, sanke, and showa. The three basic colors than can be found
on this type are hi or the red color patterns, shiroji or the white color (often
seen as a background color), and sumi which is the black color
pattern.
Kohaku is the most common type among the three. Its distinguishing
feature is the white background with red markings or hi that are all over the
body. These color patterns should be uniform in depth and have well-defined
edges. Koi enthusiasts often use this type in crossbreeding with other types of
koi like Doitsu or Ochiba.
Sanke, also known as Sanshoku, have features very
similar to Kohaku. However, in addition to the hi or red patterns, this type
also has sumi or black markings around the body. Keep in mind that sumi on Sanke
should never be seen on the head. Showa is also tri-colored koi like Sanke but
sumi is usually seen on the head of a Showa. It is often described as a black
koi with shiroji or white patterns and deep red markings around the
body.
Another commonly seen type of nishikigoi is the Bekko. Its name is a
derivative of the Japanese word meaning "tortoise shell", which also has three
different varieties under its name. Shiro Bekko is probably the only one among
the three that is widely known. Its simplistic beauty is characterized by
shiroji or a white background, with sumi (black) markings on their body that are
usually located on the top side creating a lateral line. Always remember that
any hi or red marking on the koi would automatically classify them as
Sanke.
Aka Bekko is a type of koi with a scarlet red body overlain with sumi
or black color patterns and white or sometimes clear finnage - in some cases, hi
can be seen on the finnage as blotches and not the usual stripes. Ki Bekko is
considered to be the rarest among the three variations. They are seen with a
bright yellow body with patterns of sumi on top of the yellow color. Its name is
based on the color of the fish Ki, which is a Japanese word for
yellow.
GinRin is another one of the popular types of Koi. First developed in
1929 by a koi enthusiast, this type of Japanese carp was initially called
Gingoke. The scales of this koi are a bit different from the usual metallic koi
types. Scales of GinRin produces a glimmering effect that reflects the color of
the pigment that overlays the silver area of the scale. Its name is derived from
the colors that are seen which are silver (Gin) and gold (Kin) - GinRin is a
short name for Kin-Gin-Rin.
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