Goshiki Koi Carp

Goshiki Koi Carp

Goshiki Koi Carp are one of the most desirable varieties in the hobby due to their striking colourations and patterns. They were bred from Asagi koi and a Kohaku koi, creating a blend of the characteristics of both. Goshiki (pronounced Gosh-key) translates to “five colours”, which refers to the required markings in this variety of koi. The colours are white (shiro), red (hi), black (sumi), dark blue (konjo) and light blue (akebi). The blacks and the blues will appear in the reticulation on the scales and should go from darkest (black) at the top and gradually lightening through (dark and light blue) the side and underside of the fish, eventually appearing white, which is the base colour of this variety. This fishnet like reticulation comes from Asagi Koi whilst the the red pattern from the Kohaku appears to float on top of the reticulated scales.

The ideal red (hi) patterning of Goshiki is the same as the Kohaku. The colour should be bold and deep, with strong edging (Kiwa) and should show great symmetry. It should stretch from the head, all the way towards the tail, but it should not be present in the tail itself. The separate islands can be two or three step and should not touch. The three step (Sandan) is the most desirable. The pattern should not extend below the lateral line.