40% The most important quality of good Koi is SIZE!! Like a Sumo wrestler
bigger is better. You can't always control size (click
here to see Koi growth rates)
since you may have Koi that were not well fed at the proper
times,
or your pond may be too small,
or the water quality, oxygen levels or temperature may not be ideal
or the Koi may be weak and sick from parasites, bacterial, viral or
fungal infections.
Part of size is shape and volume.
Symmetry in shape is very important i.e., the head, mouth, eyes, fins,
etc. Any deformities are marked off
In most shows Koi are grouped by size and then judged within that size
grouping. Although the "Grand Champion" will usually be picked
from the largest size group, within a given size group pattern becomes the
next most important criteria
20% Pattern (in one color Koi obviously there is no
pattern)
unique patterns are desirable
lightning patterns are even better
crisp edges to patterns are preferred
lack of blemishes are important
no "dirty" face, head, nostrils, etc.
in Doitsu the scale pattern should be symmetrical
20% The next quality point is color
depth and purity of color is very important
a delicate creamy white with a depth to it
a deep black (the old adage is black comes - and expands)
a pure red (the old adage is red goes)
the depth of lustre is sought after especially in metallic varieties
20% The next quality point is their star
celebrity elegance
Phone: 303-883-8000