Description

Kohaku is the foundation variety of nishikigoi – white skin with red patterning. Quality is judged on the whiteness of the base, the thickness and edge definition of the red, and the balance of the pattern along the back.

These are 15 cm juveniles from a Niigata bloodline, selected for clean skin and well-defined pattern edges. Koi are pond fish. They will outgrow any indoor aquarium and should be planned for a pond of at least 4,000 litres.

Keeping notes

• Minimum 1,000 litres per adult koi. They reach 60 cm or more.
• Koi eat aquatic plants. A koi pond and a planted pond are two different projects.
• Provide shade over part of the pond – direct Chennai sun all day drives temperatures and algae up.
• Netting or a cover is essential; koi jump, and herons and cats are opportunists.