Koi are often mistaken for gold fish, but they actually are not. You see, Koi fish is actually a mutated form of carp. That’s right: carp, which is an edible fish, actually color-mutated into the Koi fish we now know about. In fact, the Japanese word “Koi” translates into carp. The ornamental fish we now know as Koi is actually properly labeled as Nishikigoi. The Japanese add the word Nishiki in order to describe the ornate patterns and colors of the ornamental Koi.

There are actually different varieties of Koi fish, from gold to red to white, the colors and patterns of different Koi actually make Koi keeping an art. Nevertheless, people still insist on calling Koi “gold fish”. This is because of the fact that many patterns of Koi actually look like those of gold fish.

Where do you find information on different Koi gold fish?

Well, the source you should be checking out depends on the purpose of your research. Why do you want information on Koi gold fish? Are you planning on becoming an enthusiast? Are you doing an article about Koi fish keeping? Do you need information because of a research? Your purpose determines just how much information you need about Koi gold fish. This is because different sources contain different varieties of information.

Here are some sources you might want to check out:

1. Encyclopedias – Different science encyclopedias can offer you general information about gold Koi fish. The information encyclopedias provide extend from an overview of Koi history and some illustrations of the types of Koi. Encyclopedias also show the basics of Koi keeping.
2. Hobby books – These books specialize in helping the beginner with the complexities of keeping Koi gold fish. These books offer more extensive coverage than encyclopedias. They offer to guide you from the basics of Koi gold fish keeping to the more complicated breeding process. They help you progress from novice to expert in a short time by providing you with excellent information and tips on Koi care.
3. Hobbyist web sites – These web sites offer you all of the above plus much more! They allow you to connect with other Koi enthusiasts and share different tips, advice, news and other tidbits about the world of Koi keeping. They also offer you important information on where to get the best equipment and supplies you can use in talking care of your fish.
4. Specialty shops – Koi shops are often hotspots for meeting other Koi enthusiasts. These provide you with an opportunity to mingle with other people who are interested in the same things you are. One advantage of this type of social interaction is the fact that you already have in common so you won’t really feel that moment of awkwardness of trying to start a conversation with a stranger. Come on, we all know that fish is not all that a Koi enthusiast has in mind.

Nevertheless, if you are focused on gaining information about your fish and how to take care of them, Koi specialty shops are the best place for you to go. Some pet shops may offer you equipment and supplies, but you cannot always be sure that these supplies are the best to use for your Koi. However, by going to Koi specialty shops you can be sure that the products you get are right for your fish.

Next: Caring for the Koi Fish