Asagi Koi

Looks how to spot one

scales

Fully scaled, non-metallic body with a distinctive net-like pattern of blue-grey scales edged in lighter blue or white, creating a pine cone or reticulated effect. The head, tail and fins are often white or pale, sometimes with red accents.56

Personality what they are like

Asagi koi are calm, peaceful and even-tempered, making them excellent pond mates for other large, non-aggressive fish. They are not territorial and adapt well to community ponds.53

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate. Asagi koi are active swimmers that need plenty of open water in a large pond or tank. They benefit from a well-oxygenated environment with gentle water flow.36

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low. Regular water testing and good filtration are essential. No special grooming is needed, but maintaining stable water parameters and a clean pond is vital for health and colour.23

Home where they are happiest

Requires a pond of at least 1000 gallons (3785 litres) with stable water chemistry. Water temperature should be 10-25°C, pH 7.5-8.5, with zero ammonia and nitrite. A good filtration system and regular water changes are necessary.36

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Omnivore. A high-quality koi pellet as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, mysis shrimp and greens. Colour-enhancing foods with astaxanthin or spirulina can help bring out blue and red tones.326

Company who they like around

Asagi koi are social and do best in groups of their own kind or with other peaceful, similarly sized pond fish. They are not aggressive and thrive in a community setting.35

The story where it all began

Asagi is one of the oldest ornamental koi varieties, first developed in the Niigata region of Japan around the 1700s to early 1800s. It originated from the wild black carp known as Magoi, which was originally kept as a food fish. Through selective breeding, the Asagi's distinctive blue-grey reticulated pattern emerged, making it the first truly brocaded carp. This variety is considered the ancestor of many modern koi types, including the popular Kohaku. The name 'Asagi' means pale blue or indigo in Japanese, and the fish is sometimes called Blue Back koi. Two main sub-varieties exist: the darker Konjo Asagi and the lighter, more common Narumi Asagi, named after a Japanese fabric pattern that resembles its scales.1256

Recognised by the official bits

Champion Nishikigoi

Recognised as one of the most ancient koi varieties7