The breeding of ornamental koi 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.
Shiro Utsuri Koi: The history of the Shiro Utsuri began around 1925, when Japanese breeder Kazuo Minemura was given the honor of creating this beautiful jet-black and snow-white fish. When the variety was first bred, it was too small to achieve great success at koi shows. However, over the decades, Minemura and other breeders worked on crossbreeding with larger specimens and succeeded in creating a larger fish that was considered complete in 1991. A good specimen of the Shiro Utsuri has ice-white skin with well-balanced black sumi. A prized feature is a clean white transition between the body and tail (the odome). Another desirable feature is the "m" shape, or lightning bolt, on the head within the black sumi pattern.
• Koi carp can grow to enormous sizes; some reach a length of over 1.2 meters under ideal conditions. They make fantastic pets and often recognize their owner, allowing them to be hand-fed. They thrive at temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius but can survive the winter in much lower temperatures. • In Japanese culture, koi carp symbolize perseverance, courage, and success. They are mentioned countless times in mythology, often depicted as fish swimming against the current and transforming into dragons. • Koi carp are omnivores, but it is recommended to feed them a diet consisting of algae and koi pellets in captivity.
Characteristics • Average length: 60-120 cm • Average lifespan: 25-35 years • Habitat: Ponds and lakes