THE LIVING REFERENCE

Koi fish: learn the patterns, understand the care

A white body with red markings. Deep black wrapping around the sides. Metallic skin catching the light. Learn what makes each koi variety distinct.

Use this reference to explore koi types and compare features. Variety describes appearance and breeding classification; it does not by itself tell you a fish's health, adult size, personality, or price.

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Start with the major differences

Color and pattern: Look at the base color, the placement of red and black, and whether markings continue onto the head or fins.

Metallic finish: Some varieties have a metallic sheen. This is different from Ginrin, which describes reflective scales.

Scale pattern: Doitsu koi have reduced scales, often with visible rows along the back or sides. Fully scaled koi have a different surface pattern.

Fin form: Longfin or butterfly koi have elongated fins. This trait can occur with different colors and patterns.

Compare koi varieties and markings

Image Credits And Licenses

40 of 40 entries

Koi share core needs for suitable water, oxygen, filtration, space, observation, and a careful introduction plan. Color and scale traits do not replace those needs.

Overhead view of a white koi with broad red patches swimming in a blue viewing tub.

Variety

Kohaku

White, RedScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Red markings sit on a white body. The arrangement of the red areas can vary widely.
Colors: White, Red
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: A Sanke also has black markings.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does Kohaku require a fixed number of red patches?

No. Different pattern arrangements have their own descriptive names.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Kohaku with red markings on a white body.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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White koi with red patches and scattered black markings swimming beside other fish in blue water.

Variety

Taisho Sanke

White, Red, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Red and black markings appear on a white ground. The head typically has no black marking.
Colors: White, Red, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Compare the placement of black with Showa, not just the three colors.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Are Sanke and Taisho Sanshoku different varieties?

They are commonly used names for the same variety.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Taisho Sanke reference example.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Red, white, and black koi curving through the water in a blue viewing tub.

Variety

Showa Sanshoku

Black, White, RedScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Bold black combines with white and red. Black commonly extends onto the head and wraps through the pattern.
Colors: Black, White, Red
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Modern Showa can have much more white than older-style examples.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does lots of white automatically make a koi a Sanke?

No. Study the black pattern and other features as well.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Showa Sanshoku reference example.

Robsig12 | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Silvery white koi with a single round red mark on its head against dark water.

Pattern category

Tancho

Red, White, BlackVaries

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A separate round or near-round red head marking appears without other red body markings.
Colors: Red, White, Black
Metallic: Varies
Scale type: Varies
Look-alike distinction: Tancho describes a pattern and can accompany several variety names.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can a Tancho have black on its body?

Yes. Tancho Sanke and Tancho Showa are examples.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Tancho Kohaku with a single red head mark and a white body.

Immanuel Giel | CC0. Original file; no edits

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White koi with scattered black spots and a round red head mark seen from above in blue water.

Pattern variety

Tancho Sanke

White, Red, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A Tancho head mark combines with the black-and-white body pattern of Sanke.
Colors: White, Red, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: It has no additional red body patches.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is every red-headed tricolor koi a Tancho Sanke?

No. Red elsewhere on the body or a Showa pattern changes the identification.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Tancho Sanke reference example.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Black-and-white koi with a round red head mark seen from above in a bright blue tub.

Pattern variety

Tancho Showa

Black, White, RedScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A Tancho red head mark appears with the black-and-white pattern of Showa.
Colors: Black, White, Red
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: The Showa pattern distinguishes it from Tancho Sanke.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can the black pattern cross a Tancho Showa's head?

Black may be present on a Showa head; assess the whole pattern.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Tancho Showa reference example.

Jean louis cristini | CC BY-SA 4.0. Original file; no edits

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Overhead view of a koi with broad black-and-white patches in a blue viewing tub.

Variety group

Utsurimono

Black, White, Red, YellowScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Strong black patterns combine with white, red-orange, or yellow, depending on the named type.
Colors: Black, White, Red, Yellow
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Bekko generally has more discrete, Sanke-like black markings.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Which main names belong to Utsurimono?

Shiro Utsuri, Hi Utsuri, and Ki Utsuri.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Shiro Utsuri, a distinct specimen showing the Utsurimono group.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Source image as supplied; no edits

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White koi with large irregular black patches swimming toward the viewer in blue water.

Variety

Shiro Utsuri

White, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: White and black form a bold two-color pattern.
Colors: White, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Unlike Showa, it has no red component.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does shiro refer to the white color?

Yes. It identifies the white form within this group.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Shiro Utsuri reference example.

Maxikoi at Dutch Wikipedia Later version(s) were uploaded by Erik Baas at nl.wikipedia. (Original text: nl:Overleg gebruiker:Maxikoi) | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Orange-red koi with broad black bands seen diagonally from above in pale blue water.

Variety

Hi Utsuri

Red, Orange, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Black combines with red or orange areas in an Utsuri pattern.
Colors: Red, Orange, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Aka Bekko has a different style of black marking.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can Hi Utsuri look orange rather than deep red?

Yes. The colored areas can appear red or orange.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Hi Utsuri reference example.

Benutzer:Fehlwort | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Golden-yellow koi with large black patches and visible scales in a blue viewing tub.

Variety

Ki Utsuri

Yellow, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Yellow combines with bold black markings.
Colors: Yellow, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Compare the black pattern with Ki Bekko.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is Ki Utsuri simply a yellow Ogon?

No. Ki Utsuri has a black pattern and is nonmetallic.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ginrin Ki Utsuri with yellow and black markings.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original file; no edits

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Silvery white koi with scattered black patches and a pale golden head seen from above.

Variety group

Bekko

White, Red, Yellow, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Smaller black markings appear over a white, red-orange, or yellow ground.
Colors: White, Red, Yellow, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: The ground color determines Shiro, Aka, or Ki Bekko.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is Bekko a single color variety?

It is a group with several ground-color forms.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ginrin Shiro Bekko, a distinct example of the Bekko group.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original file; no edits

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Pale white koi with small black patches along its back swimming sideways through blue water.

Variety

Shiro Bekko

White, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Black markings appear on a white body without red patches.
Colors: White, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Its black pattern differs from Shiro Utsuri.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

How does Shiro Bekko differ from Sanke?

Shiro Bekko lacks the red markings of Sanke.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Doitsu Shiro Bekko example; reduced-scale form.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Red-orange koi with scattered black patches seen from above against a blue background.

Variety

Aka Bekko

Red, Orange, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Black markings sit on a red or orange ground.
Colors: Red, Orange, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Aka Sanke can retain white areas and is a different identification.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does Aka Bekko have a white background?

No. Its ground is red or orange.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Aka Bekko with black markings on a red ground.

lagazzettadellekoi | CC BY-ND 2.0. Source image as supplied; no edits

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Bright yellow koi with irregular black patches along its back and pale fins in a blue tub.

Variety

Ki Bekko

Yellow, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Black spots appear over a yellow ground.
Colors: Yellow, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: The smaller black pattern distinguishes it from Ki Utsuri.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does yellow with black always mean Ki Utsuri?

No. The arrangement of black is important.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ki Bekko with black markings on a yellow ground.

lagazzettadellekoi | CC BY-ND 2.0. Source image as supplied; no edits

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Koi with blue-gray net-patterned scales, a pale head, and reddish fins in a light-colored tub.

Variety

Asagi

Blue, Gray, RedScaled

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Blue-gray reticulation gives the back a net-like appearance, often with red-orange along the lower sides.
Colors: Blue, Gray, Red
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled
Look-alike distinction: Shusui is the related Doitsu form with a different scale pattern.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Why does an Asagi's back look like a net?

Contrasting centers and edges in the scales create that effect.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Asagi reference example.

No machine-readable author provided. Rob Hille assumed (based on copyright claims). | Public domain. Original file; no edits

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Pale blue koi with a row of dark scales along its back and orange-red sides in blue water.

Variety

Shusui

Blue, White, RedDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A mostly smooth body and a prominent dorsal row of scales distinguish this Asagi-related koi.
Colors: Blue, White, Red
Metallic: No
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Doitsu alone does not mean Shusui.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Are all mostly scaleless koi Shusui?

No. Many other varieties also have Doitsu forms.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Shusui with blue skin, a line of dorsal scales, and red side markings.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Dark, net-scaled koi with vivid red patches swimming beside a measuring scale in a blue tub.

Variety

Goshiki

Red, White, Gray, Black, BlueScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A complex reticulated background supports a red pattern. The overall darkness can vary between fish.
Colors: Red, White, Gray, Black, Blue
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Koromo's dark overlay is concentrated within the red areas.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does Goshiki mean five separate solid patches?

No. The name refers to a complex color effect, not a required five-patch layout.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Modern Goshiki with red markings over a dark reticulated ground.

Ducoussetl | CC BY-SA 4.0. Original file; no edits

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White koi with large dark wine-colored patches seen directly from above in a blue tub.

Variety group

Koromo / Goromo

White, Red, Blue, BlackScaled

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Dark edging or overlay appears within red pattern areas on a white ground.
Colors: White, Red, Blue, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled
Look-alike distinction: The overlay differs from separate black Sanke spots.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Why are both Koromo and Goromo used?

Both spellings occur in variety names and reference material.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Budo Goromo specimen | Koromo group reference.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photo; no edits

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White koi with red patches edged by dark scales seen directly from above against blue.

Variety

Ai Goromo

White, Red, BlueScaled

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A blue-dark net-like overlay lies within the red pattern.
Colors: White, Red, Blue
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled
Look-alike distinction: Budo Goromo has a heavier, grape-like appearance in the overlay.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is the dark reticulation spread across the white ground?

For this identification, the defining overlay is within the red areas.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ai Goromo with blue-edged red markings on a white body.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original file; no edits

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White koi with deep red patches along its back seen from above in a pale blue tub.

Variety

Budo Goromo

White, Red, Purple, BlackScaled

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A heavier dark overlay gives the red pattern a clustered, grape-like appearance.
Colors: White, Red, Purple, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled
Look-alike distinction: Compare the depth of overlay with Ai Goromo.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does Budo Goromo mean a solid purple koi?

No. It describes the look of the patterned areas.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Budo Goromo reference example.

Maxikoi at Dutch Wikipedia Later version(s) were uploaded by Erik Baas at nl.wikipedia. (Original text: nl:Overleg gebruiker:Maxikoi) | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Bright golden-yellow koi with visible scales and matching fins seen from above in a blue tub.

Variety group

Ogon

Yellow, White, OrangeScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A single overall color and metallic sheen define the familiar Ogon forms.
Colors: Yellow, White, Orange
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Ginrin sparkle comes from reflective scales and is a different trait.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Are all Ogon yellow?

No. Platinum and orange forms are also recognized.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Yamabuki Ogon, a single-color metallic koi in the Ogon group.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Golden koi with large visible scales swimming diagonally through pale blue water.

Variety

Yamabuki Ogon

Yellow, GoldScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A solid yellow-gold metallic body creates a bright, simple appearance.
Colors: Yellow, Gold
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: A yellow nonmetallic koi has a different identification.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does Yamabuki Ogon need black markings?

No. It is a single-color metallic form.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Yamabuki Ogon reference photograph.

Benutzer:Fehlwort | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Large silvery white koi with pale fins swimming beside a smaller red fish in dark pond water.

Variety

Platinum Ogon

White, SilverScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A white-silver body has metallic luster across its surface.
Colors: White, Silver
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: A nonmetallic white koi is not the same form.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is a white body enough to identify Platinum Ogon?

No. The metallic skin quality is part of the identification.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ginrin (diamond) Platinum Ogon reference example.

Stan Shebs | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Orange koi and a few white fish crowding near the rippling surface of green pond water.

Variety

Orenji Ogon

OrangeScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A single orange color is paired with a metallic finish.
Colors: Orange
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Benigoi is a nonmetallic red-orange type.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does Orenji Ogon have a two-color pattern?

No. It belongs with the single-color metallic forms.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Orenji Ogon in a pond. Group photograph.

freeimageslive.co.uk - gratuit | CC BY 3.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Group of brown and golden koi swimming in a round blue viewing tub.

Variety

Chagoi

Brown, OliveScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Brown to olive tones give this solid-color koi a quiet appearance.
Colors: Brown, Olive
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Color does not guarantee a particular temperament.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is every Chagoi guaranteed to hand-feed?

No. Behavior depends on the individual fish and its conditions.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Chagoi reference example.

Paulman (talk) | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Gray koi with dark-edged scales and pale fins seen directly from above in a blue tub.

Variety

Soragoi

Gray, BlueScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A solid gray to blue-gray appearance defines this nonmetallic type.
Colors: Gray, Blue
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Ochiba adds brown patterning to a gray background.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does a Soragoi need brown patches?

No. Brown patterning suggests considering an Ochiba identification.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Soragoi reference photograph.

lagazzettadellekoi | CC BY-ND 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Blue-gray koi with large bronze-brown patches and net-patterned scales in a blue tub.

Variety

Ochiba Shigure

Gray, BrownScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Brown markings sit over a gray background, creating the familiar fallen-leaf effect.
Colors: Gray, Brown
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Soragoi is the unpatterned gray comparison.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does every Ochiba have the same brown pattern?

No. Placement and extent vary by fish.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ochiba Shigure reference example.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Close-up of a golden koi head and upper body beneath rippling blue water.

Variety

Karashigoi

Yellow, CreamScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Mustard to pale yellow tones characterize this nonmetallic solid-color type.
Colors: Yellow, Cream
Metallic: No
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Yamabuki Ogon has a metallic finish.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can yellow color alone identify Karashigoi?

No. Confirm the skin finish and the fish's identification with the seller.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Karashigoi reference example.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Black-and-white koi with a pale head and broad smooth patches seen from above in a blue tub.

Variety

Kumonryu

White, BlackDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Black and white combine on a mostly scaleless body. The visible pattern can change.
Colors: White, Black
Metallic: No
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Kikokuryu adds a metallic finish.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is a Kumonryu's current pattern a lifelong guarantee?

No. Pattern changes are part of the reason to avoid fixed appearance promises.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Kumonryu reference photograph.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Mostly black koi with red markings on its head and back and a white nose in a blue tub.

Variety

Beni Kumonryu

White, Black, RedDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Red is added to the black-and-white Kumonryu appearance.
Colors: White, Black, Red
Metallic: No
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Beni Kikokuryu is metallic.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

What does beni add to this name?

It indicates the red component in the pattern.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Beni Kumonryu reference photograph.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Silver-white koi with dark patterned scales along its back and pale fins against a blue background.

Variety

Kikokuryu

White, Silver, BlackDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Metallic skin and black patterning distinguish this mostly scaleless koi.
Colors: White, Silver, Black
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Kumonryu lacks the metallic finish.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Does every black-and-white Doitsu koi count as Kikokuryu?

No. Metallic luster is an important distinction.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Kodama Koi FarmSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Kikokuryu reference photograph.

lagazzettadellekoi | CC BY-ND 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Orange, black, and silver koi with dark fins seen directly from above in a blue viewing tub.

Variety

Beni Kikokuryu

White, Silver, Black, RedDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A red component joins the metallic black-and-white pattern.
Colors: White, Silver, Black, Red
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Do not confuse it with nonmetallic Beni Kumonryu.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is the red pattern the only identification feature?

No. Scale type, metallic finish, and the black pattern also matter.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Beni Kikokuryu reference photograph.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Two orange-and-white koi in blue water, one with dense dark scales and one with fewer large scales.

Variety

Kujaku

White, Red, Orange, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A metallic body combines red-orange patterning with a net-like dark scale effect.
Colors: White, Red, Orange, Black
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Goshiki is not the same metallic variety.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

What details should I compare when identifying Kujaku?

Look at the metallic finish, colored pattern, and reticulation together.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

The source photograph shows scaled and Doitsu Kujaku examples.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Yellow-and-white koi with dark-edged scales and pale fins seen from above in a blue tub.

Variety group

Hariwake

White, Yellow, OrangeScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A metallic white ground carries yellow or orange patterning.
Colors: White, Yellow, Orange
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Ogon has one overall color instead of this two-color effect.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can Hariwake have yellow markings?

Yes. Yellow-patterned and orange-patterned forms are recognized.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ginrin Hariwake reference example.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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White koi with scattered orange patches and pale fins seen from above in blue water.

Variety

Kikusui

White, Red, OrangeDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: A mostly smooth metallic white body carries red-orange patterning.
Colors: White, Red, Orange
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: A Doitsu Kohaku is nonmetallic.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Why is Kikusui often compared with Kohaku?

Both can look white and red, but metallic finish and scale type distinguish them.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Kikusui reference photograph.

lagazzettadellekoi | CC BY-ND 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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White koi with red and black patches seen directly from above in a blue viewing tub.

Variety

Kin Showa

White, Red, BlackScaled or Doitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: This is a metallic Showa-type koi, retaining a tricolor pattern.
Colors: White, Red, Black
Metallic: Yes
Scale type: Scaled or Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: The name does not simply mean any Showa with a gold-colored patch.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

What makes Kin Showa different from ordinary Showa?

Metallic skin quality is the defining added feature.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Doitsu Kin Showa reference example.

KoiQuestion | CC BY-SA 2.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Orange koi with a dark net-like scale pattern along its back seen from above in blue water.

Pattern family

Matsuba

Red, Yellow, White, BlackScaled

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Dark scale centers create a pinecone-like reticulated appearance over a base color.
Colors: Red, Yellow, White, Black
Metallic: Varies
Scale type: Scaled
Look-alike distinction: Full names such as Aka Matsuba or Gin Matsuba clarify the form.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is Matsuba one fixed color?

No. The pattern name is used with several color and metallic forms.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Aka Matsuba example of the Matsuba pattern family.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Side view of a white koi with broad orange patches and a row of large dark scales along its back.

Scale trait

Doitsu

VariesDoitsu

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Reduced scaling produces a mostly smooth body, sometimes with rows of large scales.
Colors: Varies
Metallic: Varies
Scale type: Doitsu
Look-alike distinction: Doitsu can accompany many color-variety names.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Is Doitsu a separate fish species?

No. It describes a scale trait within koi.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

All Japan Nishikigoi Promotion AssociationSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Doitsu Kujaku, an example of the mostly scaleless Doitsu trait.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Black-and-white koi with reflective scales swimming diagonally through blue water.

Scale trait

Ginrin / Kinginrin

VariesReflective scales

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Highly reflective scales create a sparkling effect across the body.
Colors: Varies
Metallic: Varies
Scale type: Reflective scales
Look-alike distinction: Ginrin scale sparkle differs from overall metallic skin.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can a Kohaku also be Ginrin?

Yes. Ginrin can occur alongside several variety identities.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Zen Nippon AirinkaiSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Ginrin Shiro Utsuri example illustrating reflective scales.

Maxikoi | CC BY-SA 3.0. Original file; no edits

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Pale koi with a yellow head, small orange markings, and long flowing fins above a dark pond bottom.

Fin trait

Butterfly / longfin koi

VariesVaries

Details, Care, And Sources

Identification: Long flowing fins define this form. Colors and scale traits can vary widely.
Colors: Varies
Metallic: Varies
Scale type: Varies
Look-alike distinction: Longfin describes the fins, not one particular color pattern.
Care note: The variety name does not establish health, adult size, temperament, price, or available pond capacity. Use the shared koi-care section and assess the actual fish.

Can a butterfly koi also be Doitsu?

Yes. Long fins and reduced scaling are separate traits.

Shared Koi Care

Sources

Kloubec Koi FarmSource checked 2026-10-20

Image Identification

Butterfly Koi reference photograph.

Dslcards | CC BY-SA 4.0. Original photograph; no edits

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Care comes before collecting

A koi needs suitable water, oxygen, filtration, space as it grows, and a responsible introduction plan. Check the existing pond before adding more fish. A visually clear pond is not proof that it has spare capacity.

Keep records of new fish, treatments, feeding changes, and water tests. If a fish develops sores, breathing problems, unusual swelling, or loss of balance, seek an assessment instead of choosing a treatment by appearance alone.

Koi Pond Maintenance Urgent Koi Support

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Koi fish FAQs

The names in this guide mainly describe ornamental koi varieties and traits, not separate fish species. Breeding and classification distinguish their color, pattern, scales, and fins.

Sanke is generally described as white-based with red and black markings, with black usually absent from the head. Showa is generally described as black-based with red and white markings, often including black on the head and wrapping down the body. Individual fish can be harder to classify.

No. Ginrin describes reflective scales. Metallic varieties have a metallic sheen to the skin and body. A koi can combine traits, so one word may not describe the whole fish.

No. Genetics, sex, age, nutrition, water quality, and the environment affect growth. Variety names are not reliable size guarantees.

Koi can live for decades with suitable care, but there is no guaranteed lifespan. Water quality, disease, predation, and system failures can shorten it. Exceptional age stories should not be treated as an expectation.

No. Appearance and value are separate from health. Review behavior, body condition, source history, and the introduction plan before adding a fish.

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