Koi Facts & Our
Fish
The KOI we know today are all
descendants of the black carp known as Maoi. Originating from
Eastern Asia and China, where the earliest written record of the
species is found, KOI were introduced to Japan by the invading
Chinese around 200 A.D.
In the 17th Century, Japanese rice
farmers stocked their paddies to supplement their diets in the
isolated Niigata region. Color mutations were first noticed in the
1800's. Many of the color varieties we see today were established
during this period. Breeding "fancy" KOI was restricted to the
Niigata region until the beginning of the 20th Century. In 1914,
27 KOI were sent to the great Tokyo Exhibition to promote the
economic plight of the poverty stricken Niigata region. They were
awarded a second prize, and 8 KOI had it's first recognition. At
the end of WW II, with the advent of commercial air travel, the
export and transportation of KOI all over the world was
possible.
Breeding and keeping KOI outside of
Japan has increased tremendously from the 1980's to the present.
Most countries are now producing KOI for their own markets. It is
possible that the most beautiful KOI have yet to appear
!
People purchase KOI for many
reasons. Some for their decorative garden ponds, others for
commercial properties and enterprises. For whatever reason, all
enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the KOI. With all the color
combinations, each KOI may be enjoyed as an individual. Under the
right conditions, they can grow 30" or more, and have a possible
lifespan of 100 years ! People have trained them to take food from
the hand.
They can also be enjoyed in the more
natural environment of a mud pond where they will respond to to
food and people. Others with mud ponds purchase them for
filamentous forms of algae control. Commercial enterprises such as
golf courses, developments and office complexes have obtained KOI
for many of the same reasons.
CLICK HERE to check
out some of Imported Japanese Koi!
High quality imported Koi direct
from the top breeders in Nigata, Japan (the birthplace of
Koi). Ex: Dainichi, Tanaka, Seyyuro, Shinada, Oofuchi and
Sakai Matsunasuke to name a few. A great chance to obtain
premium Koi and a great assortment at reasonable prices.
Selection includes most of the following in regular, Ginrin and
Daitsu, Kohaku, Sanbi, Showa, Utsuris, Goromo, Shusui, Asagi,
Goshiki, Kujaku, Ki Kusui, Yamato, Kaurarimono (metallic),
Hariwake, Ogons, Platinum, Oreji, Muji, Midori, Ochiba, Chagai,
Sora Goi, Beni Kumonryu, Matsuba.
Here are some pictures of the koi we have:
