Koi Fish
Cyprinus carpio
Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.
Koi are ornamental domesticated carp bred for contrasting colours and patterns. Their pond setting and breeding history distinguish this account from a description of wild carp populations.
Ornamental koi in a pond at Loro Parque.
At a glance
- Location
- Koi are kept in managed freshwater ponds in many countries. Their ornamental breeding developed in Japan. The catalog retains Cyprinus carpio, although USGS discusses modern placement under Cyprinus rubrofuscus and the complexity of koi ancestry.
- Habitat
- Rivers and lakes, Towns and cities
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Food
- Koi eat animal and plant material.
Classification
- Common name
- Koi Fish
- Browse group
- Fish
- Scientific name or taxon
- Cyprinus carpio
- Taxon rank
- species
- Order
- Cypriniformes
- Family
- Cyprinidae
- Genus
- Cyprinus
- Source classification
- Actinopterygii
Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.
Three things to know
- They are selectively bred ornamental carp.
- Patterns vary greatly among varieties.
- Their eggs can attach to submerged plants.
Habitat and range
Koi are kept in managed freshwater ponds in many countries. Their ornamental breeding developed in Japan. The catalog retains Cyprinus carpio, although USGS discusses modern placement under Cyprinus rubrofuscus and the complexity of koi ancestry.
Appearance and adaptations
Deep bodies and barbels around the mouth accompany patterns that can combine white, orange, red, black and other colours. Selective breeding has produced many forms; koi are not simply oversized goldfish.
Diet and behaviour
Koi eat animal and plant material. Aquatic insects, algae and plants supplement foods supplied in managed ponds. Eggs adhere to submerged vegetation or other objects rather than receiving parental care.
Sources
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