Understanding Koi Terminology: Identifying the Many Varieties

Koi come in a stunning array of colors, patterns, and types – each with its own distinct name. Learning koi terminology is key to recognizing and appreciating the differences between popular varieties like Kohaku, Sanke, and Showa. This guide focuses on the specific terms used to identify koi by their appearance, lineage, and markings. Whether you’re shopping for new fish or simply want to speak the language of koi with confidence, understanding these names and classifications is a must. Dive into the world of koi varieties and discover what sets each one apart.

(Hover on the image for details on each type of koi)

Kohaku

(koh-hah-koo)

White koi with bold red patches. The most popular variety of koi.

Sanke

(sahn-keh)

A three colored fish. It is basically a Kohaku with added black markings.

Showa

(shoh-wah)

A three colored fish. The dominant color is black. This variety is referred to as a black fish with red and white markings.

Utsuri

(oot-soo-ree)

A black fish with white, red, or yellow markings.

Bekko

(beh-koh)

Tortoise-shell pattern; Shiro Bekko (white with black markings), Aka Bekko (red with black markings), Ki-Bekko (yellow with black markings).

Tancho

(tahn-choh)

Distinquished by a red (hi) circle on the head.

Koromo

(koh-roh-moh)

Similar to the Kohaku, but has a reticulated (net) pattern over the red areas that can be indigo (ai), purple (budo), or black (sumi).

Asagi

(ah-sah-gee)

A red pattern on an Asagi background. The background can either be light gray, dark gray, or black.

Goshiki

(goh-shee-kee)

A red pattern on an Asagi background. The background can either be light gray, dark gray, or black.

Shusui

(shoo-swee)

A Doitsu (German scaled) version of the Asagi with prominent light blue with red (hi) markings usually on the sides of the body and side of head.

Benigoi

(ben-ee-goi)

Non-metallic solid color red koi.

Kumonryu

(koo-mahn-doo)

A black and white scaleless (Doitsu) koi in which the pattern can change throughout the year.

Soragoi

(soh-ah-goi)

Non-metallic solid gray koi.

Kin Ginrin

(keen-geen-deen)

A koi with “diamond” (silver or gold-colored sparkling) scales. Also referred to as Gin Rin (geen deen).

Ogon

(oh-gahn)

A solid metallic yellow /gold colored koi. Ogon means gold. They are the basis for breeding many varieties.

Doitzu

(doyt- zoo)

Description of any scaleless koi; also termed as German Scale.

Chagoi

(chah-goi)

Non-metallic solid brown, tan (tea colored) or olive green. These fish grow quite large and are generally the friendliest fish in the pond.

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