What Is So Special About Koi Carp?
Koi carp are prized as ornamental fish for several reasons. The first and most obvious is their size. Given the right conditions Koi carp can grow up to 60 centimetres in length although they will restrict their growth if they are in a small, overpopulated environment. The second is their colouring. Carp and goldfish belong to the same fish family, as do shubunkin. Koi carp come in the widest range of colours. These include yellow, pink, violet, blue, black and bronze. Finally their scales are also attractive. They can be matt or metallic looking according to the variety. They are also classified according to scale pattern. Some rae only partially scaled. For example those known as “Doitsu” have scales along the central lateral areas and around the dorsal fin. The “leather” has visible scales only around the dorsal fin and some have the “matsuba” pattern of scales which resembles a pine cone.
