Koi fish are large, elegant, brightly coloured fish kept in ponds around the world. For hundreds of years people have been breeding and keeping them. They are a form of “CARP”, known as an ornamental fish species.
Carp have been around since the 1600’s where the Chinese farmed them in rice paddies. They arrived in Japan at a later stage where they were bred for their colour variants. Thus creating the koi fish species known today.
Where Can I Buy Koi Fish in South Africa?
Koi Fish in South Africa can be found locally. Their quality will differ depending on the breeder in your area. Pet store varieties are rarely great breeds. Its best to find a specialised breeder if you are looking for higher quality varieties.
How Much Do Koi Fish Cost in South Africa?
Depending on the breed, colours and size, you can expect to pay anywhere from R80 a fish (pet shop varieties), to R15000 a fish (specialised koi breeders). In the wild, common carp only live for about 20 years. Captive Koi, on the other hand, can live up to 50 years if they are looked after properly.
Types of Koi Varieties Common in Koi Shows
There are many different varieties to choose from. To figure out the difference between the koi breeds, colour, patterns and body need to be looked at. Below is a list of the most common types.
- Kohaku
- Taisho Sanke
- Showa Sanshoku
- Tancho
- Shiro Utsuri
- Platinum Ogon
- Yamabuki Ogon
- Kujaku
- Hariwake
- Kikusui
- Goromo
- Goshiki
- Hi Utsuri
- Ki Utsuri
- Asagi
- Shusui
- Matsuba
- Kumonryu
- Beni Kumonryu
- Chagoi
- Soragoi
- Ochiba Shigure
- Kikokuryu
- Kin Kikokuryu
Generally Koi are relatively peaceful fish. They socialise well with the fish in their school and tend to ignore other fish not in their school. They are also very active fish that show off their bright colours every chance they get.
