Kikusui

Cyprinus rubrofuscus

Red-orange patches lie on smooth metallic white skin.

Natural habitat: The species inhabits freshwater and can tolerate slightly brackish conditions; koi are domesticated ornamental forms.

Plan filtration and adult space for a large pond fish; unprotected planting can be damaged.

Appearance and identification

Its largely scaleless sides, red-and-white markings and metallic luster distinguish it from scaled Kohaku and gold-and-white Hariwake.

Watch females during spawning chases.

Requires a large pond, effective filtration and ongoing water-quality management.

Use appropriate koi feed and adjust to temperature and feeding response; do not rely on leftovers.

Assess size, feeding and spawning behaviour individually.

Protect roots and planting areas.

Sources