Koi

Koi are ornamental varieties of carp, scientifically known as *Cyprinus* species. These fish are kept primarily for decorative purposes in outdoor ponds or water gardens.

While they are part of the larger carp family, koi are distinguished by their unique colors and patterns. They are highly valued by collectors and hobbyists around the world. This passion for koi has turned them into living pieces of art. Many people find peace watching them swim in specialized garden environments.

The process of creating these fish involves a method called artificial selection.

In the early 19th century, breeders began selecting specific fish to reproduce. They would cross different colored varieties to achieve new patterns. For example, breeders in the Nijūmuragō area crossed red and white koi to create new combinations. This is a difficult and precise task. In modern ornamental farming, less than 1% of offspring are considered superior colored fish. This low percentage shows how much effort is required to maintain high standards.

There are many distinct types of koi recognized by breeders. They are often categorized by their coloration, patterning, and the way their scales look.

One of the most famous categories is the Gosanke. This group includes three major varieties: the Kōhaku, the Taishō Sanshoku, and the Shōwa Sanshoku. Other varieties include the Asagi, which has a light blue back, and the Ki Utsuri. Some koi also feature metallic scales, such as gold or silver-white "platinum" scales. These differences allow for a massive range of visual beauty.

The history of carp is very ancient.

Carp are native to Central Europe and Asia. In China, they were originally domesticated for food. Ancient Chinese texts from the 4th century even called them "horses." This was because people believed they could run through the sky. In Japan, fossils of the Cyprinidae family have been found on Iki Island.

Excavations at Lake Biwa show that carp have lived in Japan since the Jomon period, over 11,500 years ago. While some thought carp were only recently introduced from China, DNA analysis shows a native Japanese lineage exists.

Systematic breeding of ornamental carp really took off in the 1820s in Niigata, Japan.

Farmers in the Nijūmuragō area used terraced ponds near their rice paddies to raise them. This happened because they had "hidden" rice fields that helped them avoid taxes. This extra wealth allowed them to pursue koi breeding as a hobby. Around 1875, colored koi became very popular. The name "Nishikigoi," which means "brocaded carp," was not used until the 1910s. Before that, they were often called "spotted carp" or "patterned carp."

Significant milestones helped koi gain global fame. In 1914, the "Koi Exhibit Association" showed varieties at the Tokyo Taishō Exposition.

The fish won a silver medal and were even presented to the Crown Prince. This event caused the market value of koi to soar. In 1917, specific breeds like the Taishō Sanshoku were officially fixed. Another variety, the Shūsui, was created in 1906 by crossing a German leather carp with a Japanese Asagi. This shows how different global lineages can be combined to create new beauty.

Today, koi are a global phenomenon. They are sold in pet shops and through specialist dealers.

]] Collecting koi has become a major social hobby with dedicated clubs. The economic value of these fish can be staggering. In 2018, a single carp was purchased by a Chinese collector for approximately $2 million. This remains the highest price ever paid for a fish. From ancient food sources to multimillion-dollar treasures, koi continue to fascinate the world.