carp
Japanese Name:
鯉
Romaji Name:
koi
Description
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A koi is a type of ornamental carp, originally bred in Japan, known for its bright colors and beautiful patterns. Koi are commonly kept in outdoor ponds and water gardens, and they are often seen as symbols of luck, prosperity, and perseverance.
History
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Koi originated from the Cyprinus carpio, a freshwater fish native to East Asia, specifically China. They were initially farmed for food, dating back over 2,000 years. However, the colorful varieties of koi that we recognize today were selectively bred for ornamental purposes.
Koi were introduced to Japan from China in the early 19th century. In Japan, the fish were highly valued, and people began selectively breeding them for various colors, patterns, and sizes. The koi fish became an important part of Japanese culture, especially for their beauty and symbolic meanings.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, koi breeding became a highly specialized and refined practice. The different types of koi (such as kohaku, sanke, and showa) were developed, each with unique patterns and colorations. Koi breeding has since become a popular hobby worldwide, with competitions held to find the most beautiful and unique fish.