Koi Fish Are a Relative of the Simple Fish

From simple carp to colorful koi

Koi fish are a relative of the simple fish, carp. Koi, in fact, means carp in Japanese. One of the distinctive characteristics that set koi apart from regular carp is their incredibly ornamental colors. When the Japanese first began interbreeding the species, carp were only found in one or two colors, but through careful nurturing, koi fish can now be found in a rainbow of beautiful colors. Because of this, koi fish are a popular find in decorative ponds kept by homeowners all over the world. They are an enduring breed of fish and can sometimes live up to as much as two hundred years, but kept in captivity, most koi live to be between twenty five and thirty five years old.

Identifying a male koi from a female one can be a difficult prospect. They are very similar in appearance, but make koi fish display a few distinguishing characteristics. For one, a male koi is sleeker and more streamlined than the bulkier female. In addition, male koi tend to be a bit more skittish than their female counterparts. A final identifying feature of a male koi fish is concave depression near their anal opening.

A spawning female may lay as many 1000 eggs from which FRY, or baby wish will hatch in approximately one week. The baby koi do not develop their colorful markings until they are about 12 weeks old.

One type of koi, the black koi, shares some interesting individual characteristics. While not as brightly colored as other koi, black koi are striking in their appearance and are a favorite of many decorative pond owners. Black koi typically grow to a length of about 36 inches and must be kept in well maintained larger ponds. Some owners make the mistake of creating small goldfish type ponds, but koi, because of their size, need more room to move about. The Magoi Koi is one of the first all black koi fish developed. They are really a dark bronze, but when seen from the type, they appear all black. The Magoi are one of the larger species of koi and the blood of the Magoi is being used in other species to help speed up growth in those fish as well.

Another type of black koi is the Karasu, which translated, means CROW in Japanese. These are more truly all black in color, but interesting might have a white or orange underside.

One unique feature of koi fish is their ability to change color. This can be due to the affects of their surroundings or the type of food they eat. The Matsukawabake koi, another type of black koi, is renowned for this ability. This black koi will change from all white, to all black at different times.

Koi fish have been enjoyed for thousands of years by people all over the world. Their large size and ornate coloring make them an added attraction to any landscaped or floral setting. Many people visit koi feeding ponds located at various attractions internationally and enjoy the beauty and grace of what was once just a simple carp.

Matt Phillips is a koi expert. For more great tips on koi care and koi ponds visit http://www.KoiCareAndSupplies.com.