The White Koi

Regal, stunning, majestic; these are all words we often hear as owners and onlookers are describing the Platinum Ogon (commonly known as “White Koi”).   Often found in the gardens and ponds of royals, the Platinum Ogon is one of the more fascinating fish in the koi family.

Although there are a variety of Ogon koi available (koi are classified as Ogon when they are only one color throughout their bodies), platinum have been and remain the most sought after by breeders and hobbyists alike.  While some may prefer a variety of vibrant color on their koi fish, many owners and, especially, elite breeders, find themselves enthralled by the pure snowy white these fish exhibit.  They have a sheen that stands out in a murky or shaded pond.  At closer look you can see that they have an exotic, metallic shimmer.  In fact, the Japanese word Ogon is translated to “gold” in English.  To enhance this already royal fish, most are bred to have Ginrin scales.  Each of these scales reflects light as the fish swims, making the koi appear to sparkle or shimmer.  Koi are only considered to be Ginrin if at least 20 of these scales can be seen and counted.

Platinum Ogon are a solid favorite for those breeding to compete.  They currently compete in the Kawarimono category.  It is quite easy to see if you have a strong competitor on your hands simply by checking out the purity of color, size and scales of your koi.   For many, though, the pride of owning a fish that glitters somewhat like a diamond in your pond is enough.

Ogon koi tend to be even more resilient than other varieties.  Owners have reported happy, healthy Ogon living in temperatures as cold as 4 degrees.  They also grow very quickly, an attractive quality for those who are anxious to establish their backyard koi community right away.

While the “when?” of the first Platinum Ogon breeding is under some debate, the “who?” seems to be generally agreed upon.  The Nezu Ogon (a gray/silver fish) was bred with the Kigoi (a stunning, solid yellow fish).  The result is the pure, snowy white koi we find so spectacular.  This was done, of course, by the Japanese: the meticulous, creative masterminds behind the beauty we see today.

While these fish do grace the ponds of the rich and famous and compete at the most elite events, they are not, actually the priciest koi fish on the market.  Some butterfly koi and certain varieties of sanko and kohaku koi require a much more substantial investment.  The most important thing to remember when purchasing a white koi (as with all koi) is to take your time.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions and require references.  A healthy white koi should be a pure, snowy white hue simply everywhere on its body.

Once you have chosen the perfect koi, proper care of your pet and your pond will keep your fish healthy and maintain his vibrant color.  Decent water quality, a little room to move and some proper nutrition will help your koi shine (and live a long, healthy life).