Types of Koi: A Guide to Koi Colors and Patterns

Have you ever been mesmerized by the beauty of a koi pond? These colorful creatures have captivated people for centuries with their vibrant colors and unique patterns. In this guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of koi, exploring the different types, colors, patterns, and breeds that make them so special.

What are the Different Types of Koi?

Koi come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making each one unique. Toledo Goldfish's koi are all born and raised in the US, but koi have a long and strong history throughout Asia. Toledo Goldfish does not specialize in any specific color pattern but do our best to raise a variety of colors and patterns to bring a bright color mix to your pond or water system. 

Koi historically come from Japan and still have a stronghold there. Toledo Goldfish does not import any Japanese koi so we do not use the traditional Japanese names for each color pattern or scale type. We do have a strong appreciation for the history and tradition that koi come from. We believe it is important and fun to learn about it! 

Below we have outlined what we know about types of koi, including their Japanese color pattern name, and scale patterns. Many of these terms have become part of the koi raising hobby. Some of the most common types of koi fish color terms include Kohaku, Sanke, Showa, Taisho Sanshoku, Bekko, Utsuri, Asagi, Shusui, and Matsuba. Each type has its own distinct characteristics, from the classic red and white Kohaku to the striking black and white Utsuri.

Understanding Koi Colors

One of the most fascinating aspects of koi fish is their wide range of colors and patterns. Koi can come in a rainbow of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and black. Their patterns can vary from solid colors to intricate designs such as stripes, spots, and scales. The combination of colors and patterns on a koi fish can create a truly stunning visual display. From the fiery red of Kohaku to the metallic yellow shine of Ogon, there is a color to suit every preference. Some popular Koi colors include:

• Kohaku: white body with red markings
• Sanke: white body with red and black markings
• Showa: black body with red and white markings
• Chagoi: solid brown or copper color

Exploring Koi Patterns

In addition to their colors, Koi fish are known for their intricate patterns that add another layer of beauty to these graceful creatures. Some common Koi patterns include:

• Asagi: blue or gray scales with red on the belly
• Utsuri: black body with white, red, or yellow markings
• Doitsu: scaleless Koi with a single line of large scales along the dorsal fin, sometimes called ghost or skeleton koi
• GinRin: glitter or sparkle pattern among the scales

In the pictures below you will see both examples of the GinRin (glitter/sparkle) and Doitsu (partially scaleless or larger scales). 

Discovering Koi Breeds

There are many different breeds of koi fish, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular koi breeds include the Gosanke, which consists of Kohaku, Sanke, and Showa varieties, as well as the Hikari Muji, Hikari Utsuri, and Kawarimono. Each breed has been carefully bred over generations to enhance specific traits, such as color intensity, pattern clarity, and body shape. Some popular Koi breeds include:

• Shusui: a Koi with blue scales on the top and red or orange on the bottom
• Kumonryu: a Koi with ever-changing black and white patterns
• Tancho: a Koi with a single red dot on its head, resembling the Japanese flag

Whether you are a seasoned Koi enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of ornamental fish, exploring the different types of Koi fish can be a rewarding and educational experience. Each Koi fish is a unique work of art, showcasing the beauty and diversity of these beloved creatures.

Toledo Goldfish Koi Options

Toledo Goldfish has a lot of great koi options in stock year around. We raise all our fish directly on our family fish farm and are bringing koi out of our ponds each week. We have both standard fin and butterfly fin koi listings as well as or combo pack with both standard and butterfly fin combined to give you the best of both. We have a Koi & goldfish combo pack option for those wanting a variety in their pond. We also have limited availability with specific koi color listings as well as limited runs of exact individual koi (meaning the koi you see in the picture is the koi you receive. )You can check out all our koi listings here: https://toledogoldfish.com/collections/koi-fish-for-sale

• Sunshine Yellow koi
• Tri - Color Koi
• Red and White Koi
• Calico Blue Koi 
• Orangesicle Koi
• Black Karasu Koi 
• Mystery White Koi
  
• Red and Black Koi
• Patriotic (Red, White, Blue) Koi