The breeding of ornamental Koi Carp started in the early 1800’s. The Magoi (Wild Black Carp) were introduced to Japan from China originally as a food source for rice farmers.
Showa Sanshoku Koi – The Showa Sanshoku is a strikingly beautiful tri coloured variety of Koi. First developed in 1929 by a breeder named Jyukichi Hoshino by crossing a black and white Ki Utsuri with a red and white Kohaku. Whilst the original fish had fairly weak colours and lacked the balanced patterns, breeders such as Tomiji Kobayashi continued to work on the strain and managed to enhance the colours and patterns into the prized Showa Sanshoku of today. Showa have a black (sumi) base, with deep red (hi) and clean white (shiro) markings. A distinct hallmark of a good quality Showa Sanshoku is the black (sumi) appearing on the head of the fish and to have knuckle shaped markings on their fins.
- Koi carp can grow to enormous sizes, some reaching over 4ft long in ideal conditions. They make wonderful pets and often recognise their owners, allowing them to be hand fed. They thrive in conditions between 15-25c but can survive over winter in much colder temperatures.
- In Japanese culture, Koi symbolise perseverance, courage and success, they are mentioned countless times in mythology, often cited as swimming up stream and transforming into dragons.
- Koi are Omnivores but it is recommended that when in captivity their diet should consist of Algae's and Koi pellets.
- Avg Length: 2-4ft
- Avg Lifespan: 25-35 Years
- Habitat: Ponds and Lakes