All fish / Cyprinidae

Koi

Cyprinus rubrofuscus

Also known as nishikigoi, kohaku, showa, sanke, 锦鲤, 錦鯉

Ornamental carp sold by variety (kohaku, sanke, showa, ogon) and breeder. Prices range from a few dollars to thousands.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

70 cm

Temperature

4 to 28 °C

pH

7 to 8.5

Smallest tank

4000 litres

Keep as

Groups, in a pond

Diet

Omnivore: koi pellets, wheatgerm in cool weather

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

25 years or more

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Japan (domesticated from Amur carp)

Breeding

Spawn in spring on ropes or plants; serious breeders cull heavily for pattern.

Good to know

A pond fish: it outgrows any home aquarium.