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The allure of koi: Why are these colorful carp the stars of waterscapes?
Koi is not only a kind of fish, but also a symbol of culture and beauty. These colorful carps have long been favored by waterscape enthusiasts, and they shine with their unique charm in courtyard ponds and waterscape gardens. In Japan, koi is called "nishikigoi", which means "brocade-woven carp". It not only has a long history, but also carries deep emotions and cultural connotations.
The charm of koi lies in its bright colors, unique patterns and elegant posture. Each koi is as unique as a work of art.
The history of Koi can be traced back to the early 1800s in Japan, when farmers discovered color variations in their breeding process. These variants were favored and gradually evolved into the many varieties of Koi we know today. It is worth noting that the breeding process of these carps is by no means accidental, but the result of careful selection and breeding technology. Different varieties are derived from the combination of different colors and patterns, forming dozens of varieties today, which are gradually becoming popular internationally.
The appeal of koi fish is not only their appearance, but also closely related to their symbolic meaning in Japanese culture. In Japanese culture, koi are seen as a symbol of love and friendship, and since “carp” and “love” have the same pronunciation, they are often considered a symbol of affection. Many enthusiasts also feel the tranquility and poetry of nature when watching these fish by the pond, thus transcending the simple need for viewing fish.
Each koi seems to be telling a story, which is the accumulation of years, capturing the beauty of nature and human emotions.
Today, koi are not only loved in Japan, their charm has transcended national borders and swept all over the world. Many countries have specialized communities and associations where enthusiasts not only share their breeding experiences but also hold regular competitions to promote this traditional art and culture. Especially in China, with the development of the economy, some wealthy people began to buy high-quality koi in large quantities, with the prices even reaching millions, which also triggered a new upsurge in the koi market.
In terms of breeding, professional koi breeders will make careful selections based on characteristics such as color, flower shape, and scales. In Japan, there are more than one hundred different species of koi, each with its own name and characteristics. For example, the Kōhaku is a white variety with red patches, while the Taishō Sanshoku has black patterns added to this base. The "Shōwa Sanshoku" is a variation that is mainly black with a mix of red and white.
Whether you are a breeder or a viewer, the connection between you and the koi is an emotional resonance, which makes each koi shine with its own light in the water.
In the international market, the demand for high-quality koi continues to rise. The huge demand coupled with limited supply has resulted in high prices for some high-quality koi, and the creation of some new varieties has further increased the diversity of koi. Especially since the 21st century, with the gradual opening of the market, especially the enthusiasm of Chinese collectors for koi, koi has become a new favorite of collection.
In the future, koi, as a crystallization of culture and art, will surely attract more attention. We can't help but wonder, with the integration of cultures and changes in the environment, what will the future of koi be like?
