Mojo Koi Collection - Tancho Koi Red Dots 381119

The breeding of ornamental koi carp began in the early 19th century. The Magoi (wild black carp) was originally introduced to Japan from China as a food source for rice farmers.

Tancho Koi: The Tancho Koi is a selective breeding of the Kohoku variety. Breeders selected fish with a predominantly white body and red closer to the head. Over time, they succeeded in creating the beautiful, perfect red circle on top of the head. The red circle resembles the Japanese flag and consequently became enormously popular in the region immediately. This variety is often used as a symbol of good fortune and a long life. The 'Tancho' part of the name is derived from the Tancho crane, a native white bird from Japan with a similar red spot on its head. A Tancho participating in competitions has an immaculate white body with tight, sharp edges. The only other color is the perfectly symmetrical, large red spot on top of the head.