Reference: Koi Encyclopedia Tategoi: The Series    Unique Koi & More

Koi Breed Index
Select the specific breed you are interested in:
Kohaku
Taisho Sanke
Showa Sanshoku
Utsurimono
Bekko
Asagi
Goshiki
Koromo
Hikarimuji
Hikariutsuri
Hikarimoyo
Kujaku
Kinginrin
Tancho
Doitsu
Shusui
Kumonryu
Kawarigoi

Examples
Shiro Utsuri Hi Utsuri Ki Utsuri

Utsurimono

Utsurimono literally translates as "reflections" or "reflecting ones". This category is made up of three different color varieties. The first and foremost is the Shiro (white) Utsuri. The second variety is the Hi (fire or red) Utsuri. The third and most elusive is the Ki (yellow) Utsuri.

All three color variations are accentuated by a sumi (black) base which emerges from under the white, red, or yellow field to create a pattern that suggests the "reflection" of color on a black background.

The following article was written by Joel Burkard/Pan Intercorp and previously published in PONDSCAPES magazine All rights reserved Joel Burkard/Pan Intercorp 1995

General Points of Reference

Moto Guro: literally "basic black", an Utsurimono should have sumi (black) at the mouth or nose, at the base of both pectoral fins, and at the base of the tail.

Sumi: Because the Utsurimono are considered to be basically black koi, the strength and quality of the black is very important. This does not necessarily mean that there has to be a lot of black but the strength of the sumi is a key point in judging these koi.

Menware: Literally "broken mask", it is considered an added asset if an Utsurimono or Showa has a bolt of sumi running down the face at an angle between the eyes, however, lack of this feature is not a demerit. The clearer the field is the more beautiful the koi will be. Shimi or black freckle-like specks in the field will detract from the overall appearance.

Remember that the above are merely guidelines to selection. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and any koi that conforms to all of the guidelines may cost many thousands of dollars.


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