Koi

Explore koi varieties

Recognise koi from pictures

Start with the ground colour and markings, then open a variety above for its profile. Other pond fish have their own group in the directory.

Compare where the colours occur

Kohaku has a red-and-white pattern. Sanke adds black spots to a white body with red markings; Showa also has these three colours, but its black forms broader patterns and extends onto the head. These are introductory clues, not a complete show standard. Record the background and the position of each colour. A photograph alone cannot establish lineage, quality or value.

Explore the varieties you like

Explore 24 illustrated koi varieties above. Open a picture for identification details, or add it to comparison or the aquarium. Pattern shapes and colour intensity vary between individuals; the illustrations support introductory recognition.

Plan for adults and seasonal conditions

Koi colour and pattern do not remove the need to plan adult space, filtration and oxygen. Plan for long-term pond care; juvenile size and virtual-aquarium scale do not determine stocking capacity.

Water-temperature changes affect feeding. Use actual temperature, water quality and the fishes’ response when adjusting food. The cited OATA guide concerns UK ponds, so its seasonal context is not a universal calendar. Open the koi profile for the detailed care information.