koi fish
Kohaku Koi Fish in South Africa.
Discover the elegance and beauty of Kohaku koi fish in South Afirca. Known for their red-and-white patterns. Perfect for any koi enthusiast, beginner to expert.
Our Kohaku Koi Fish
We breed and offer Top Quality Kohaku Koi fish
The Kohaku koi fish is widely regarded as the “king” of all koi breeds, known for it’s simple yet stunning elegance. With its white body adorned with striking red patterns, the Kohaku koi is a symbol of beauty in any pond. As the oldest and most loved variety of koi, the Kohaku is often the first choice for both beginners and seasoned koi enthusiasts. If you’re looking to add a touch of royalty to your pond, the Kohaku is the perfect choice.
Kohaku koi varieties
Different kohaku koi fish varieties.
Kohaku koi are not just a single type of fish. There are several variations of Kohaku, each with unique patterns that make them highly desirable in the koi community. Below is the main types of Kohaku koi you’ll find:
Plain Kohaku
The most common type, with large, continuous splotch of red running from the head to the tail along the back.
Inazuma Kohaku
Known for its dramatic, lightning-shaped red marking zigzagging along the body.
Nidan Kohaku
Featuring two unconnected red patches. One at the front and one at the tail.
Sandan Kohaku
The Sandan Kohaku has three seperate patches of red along the fish’s body.
Goten Sakura Kohaku
The Goten Sakura Kohaku is the rarest of them all, with red markings that resembles cherry blossom petals.
Tancho Kohaku
This Kohaku has a single red spot on its forehead, symbolizing Japan’s national flag.
What to look for in a top quality kohaku koi fish.
The red (hi) should be bold, vibrant, and contrast cleanly againts the pristine white (shiro) background. Quality Kohaku have a rich, even color without fading or inconsistency, while the white should be bright and free of any yellowish tinge.
The pattern on a high-quality kohaku should be well-balanced and begin on the head, flowing harmoniously along the body. Patterns like two-step(Nidan) and three-step (Sandan) are popular, especially when they’re symmetrical and well-defined. The head pattern should enhance the fish’s look without covering the eyes or extending into the mouth.
A superior Kohaku has a healthy, smooth, and slightly shiny skin texture that adds depth to the color. This sheen is a sign of good care and genetics, reflecting the koi’s overall quality.
Look for a well-proportioned body with a smooth taper from head to tail. High-grade Kohaku are neither too thin nor overly bulky, presenting a streamlined, symmetrical shape that highlights their elegance.
The fins and tail should be clear with no color bleeding from the pattern. The fins are ideally free from any imperfections, as smooth, intact fins enhance the fish’s beauty and balance.
Choose an active Kohaku with bright, clear eyes and smooth scales. This ensures a healthy fish that will thrive, with a long life expectancy and ongoing beauty.
Kohaku koi fish care
Kohaku Koi Fish Care and Maintenance
Owning Kohaku koi fish do not require special care beyond standard koi fish maintenance. They are hardy fish that can adapt to a range of climates, including cold weather, meaning they can stay outside all year around. However their are a few key care tips to ensure your Kohaku stay healthy and vibrant:
- Water Quality: Ensure the pond has execellent filtration to ensure good water quality. Kohaku thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water.
- Pond Size: Aim for a pond depth of at least 1.5 meters, with enough space to allow for growth. A minimum of 3000 liters is recommended for one fish.
- Feeding: Kohaku koi enjoy a diet rich in protein during warmer months.
- Temperature Tolerance: Kohaku are hardy fish that can withstand cold weather, making them suitable for outdoor ponds year-round