The White Koi

Humble Beginnings

When the common carp was first introduced into Japan some 400 to 600 years ago, there were only about one or two colors. Since then the Japanese have practiced the art of selective breeding and cultivation of the koi fish, as they were thereafter called, in order to bring to fruition the eye-catching colors and patterns that ought to make them known as masters in their craft. Today, there are more than 15 varieties with a specific name attached to each so as to distinguish one particular color combination or pattern from the others. One of these is the white koi.

Ghost Koi

The pure white koi is also known as white ogon or platinum ogon, where ogon means one single color with no breaks or splashes of other shades. Although there are no official records supporting the origins of the white koi, it is believed that they originated from a red carp called "Hookazuki." From there, they say, cross-breeding resulted in what are now the many varieties of koi. Even today, new koi varieties are still being developed and some have met with success, such as the Butterfly Koi and Ghost Koi, although many dispute that they are real koi.

Platinum Koi

Platinum koi can be bred with Ginrin so that the scales of the newly birthed koi will look like sparkling diamonds. To fully appreciate the glimmer, the scales need to be many and large, enough for an observer to be able to count each one. Twenty scales are said to be a good number.

More Varieties

Many white koi come with splashes of red, black, yellow, orange and blue. The placements of these colors can also vary. Some koi have colored spots on their heads or in their underbellies; others have all the color combinations artfully scattered over their bodies. They are all categorized into specific varieties, each according to the patterns, placements and color combinations. Of all these, the most popular is the Kohaku variety, or the white koi with red markings. Their appeal to many koi fish lovers is so strong that they have become the subject of paintings, sculptures, tapestries and other artwork. White koi is also believed to bring good luck, and can mean advancement in social settings or success in business. The Tancho Kohaku is especially favored because this koi has one single red patch located on its head, while the rest of the body is pure white. The effect, at the very least, is striking.

Tough Fish

One great advantage of having white koi in your pond or tank is that they are tougher than ordinary ornamental fish. White koi are known to survive water temperatures of as low as 4 degrees Celsius, and they can endure low water quality and low oxygen levels, which make them tolerant of muddy or dirty water. That way, if one doesn't have the time to regularly clean the white koi's environment, there is nothing much to worry about. Another fascinating thing is that, because of its color, even in dark water white koi is sure to stand out. It is good to remember, though, that keeping a healthy and happy koi is the most important thing - maintaining the livability of the pond or tank will ensure that your koi will live to its full 30 years!