Black Koi - The Myths, The Legends, The Truth

Black Koi are a unique breed of Koi fish. The coloring is the primary reason that they are considered "different" from the other Koi fish, which are known to have patterns and are characteristically colorful. On average, Black Koi live for thirty years. Long life is not specific to these Koi however, as historically all varieties of Koi have experienced longevity, with some having lived up to two hundred years of age. It is fairly simple to identify the male fish from the females because the anus of the male is concave. Also, the male will sometimes have what are called "breeding spots" located on their heads. For Koi fish, they can produce up to 1,000 eggs from spawning. The temperature of the water will determine when one can expect to see the baby Koi fish, which are known as fry. They will first appear between four and seven days, but won't be as colorful of the adults until they are at least three weeks old.

Originally bred in Japan, Koi were only available in one or two colors. Today, years later, people all over the world are used to seeing Koi in the basic colors like the Black Koi, but also in a multitude of other gorgeous pattern and color combinations.

All Koi fish, including the Black Koi, should be kept in large, deep ponds of at least four feet. Koi fish like the Magoi Koi species, which was originally produced as one of the first totally black Koi that were cultivated, can grow to be as large as thirty-six inches long. Truth is, the Magoi Koi is actually not a black Koi at all. It is really bronze, but appears black from above the water. Additionally, the Magoi Koi is being used to enhance other species. Its blood is seen as a by-product that could potentially maximize their growth.

Another black Koi fish called the Karasu, or "crow" in Japanese, has a black body and fins, but some are also bred with orange or white stomachs. It is one of the older species of black Koi fish.

There is a very intriguing black Koi fish that can change its color to its exact polar opposite color of completely white. It is the Matsukawabake Koi and the color of this Koi fish is determined by changes in water temperature and the seasons, as well as its diet. However, when there is relatively no temperature changes, the Matsukawabake Koi will return to its original pattern.

The "dragon fish" or Kumonryu is a Black Koi that is loved by many around the world. Its popularity has risen since it was first introduced in the 1980's. This Koi "dragon fish" is said to have a body that resembles those of dragons that are drawn in old Japanese paintings. Another theory as to how this black Koi fish got that name is because some said that they look like dragons that appear in the clouds. The Kumonryu black Koi is also capable of changing color.

Koi fish are exceptionally interesting and awesome creatures. Their ability to change color, either from being a black Koi to orange or speckled is absolutely amazing. It will be a wonderful experience for any pond owner as they watch their black Koi change to these other beautiful colors and then return to its original brilliant ebony hue.