Koi Benigoi: A Guide for Koi Enthusiasts

The Benigoi Koi is a striking solid-colored koi fish known for its vibrant red or orange body. Unlike patterned koi varieties, Benigoi showcases a uniform, deep red (beni) coloration, making it a standout in any pond. This koi variety is highly valued for its simplicity, elegance, and strong body shape.

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Cyprinus carpio
• Common Name: Benigoi Koi
• Family: Cyprinidae
• Natural Habitat: Selectively bred for ornamental ponds, originally from Japan.
• Behavior: Peaceful, social, and active swimmers.
• Pond Preferences: Large, well-oxygenated ponds with ample swimming space.
• Ideal Water Parameters:
  • pH: 7.0 – 8.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderate (5-12 dGH)
  • Temperature: 15-27°C (59-81°F)
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

Origin and Distribution

The Benigoi Koi originated from Japanese koi breeding farms as a selectively bred variety of koi carp. It is part of the Hikarimuji (single-colored metallic koi) category and is closely related to other solid-colored koi like Chagoi (brown) and Yamabuki Ogon (golden yellow).

Colors and Markings

• Primary Color: A uniform deep red or orange (beni) throughout the entire body.
• Scalation Types: Available in standard-scaled and Doitsu (scaleless) variations.
• Shininess: Some Benigoi have a metallic sheen, adding to their visual appeal.

Tankmates and Compatibility

• Best Companions:
  • Other koi varieties (Kohaku, Showa, Chagoi, Yamabuki Ogon).
  • Large peaceful pond fish, such as goldfish and orfe.
• Avoid:
  • Small fish that may be eaten.
  • Aggressive fish that could stress or injure koi.

Care Requirements

• Pond Size: Minimum 1,000 gallons for proper growth.
• Filtration: Strong biological filtration to maintain high water quality.
• Water Changes: 10-20% weekly to prevent toxin buildup.
• Lighting: Sunlight enhances coloration, but some shade is necessary in hot climates.
• Substrate & Plants:
  • Smooth river rocks or fine gravel (avoid sharp edges).
  • Floating plants like water lilies, water hyacinths, or hornwort for shade and oxygen.

Diet and Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivore
• Food Recommendations:
  • High-quality koi pellets rich in spirulina and carotenoids (to enhance red pigmentation).
  • Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, silkworm pupae).
  • Vegetables (lettuce, oranges, watermelon, peas).
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Summer (warm months): 2-3 times a day.
  • Winter (cold months): Reduce or stop feeding below 10°C (50°F), as metabolism slows.

Gender Differences

• Males: Slimmer body, pointed pectoral fins.
• Females: Larger, rounder body shape, especially during the breeding season.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced
• Breeding Requirements:
  • Spawning mops or fine-leaved plants for egg-laying.
  • Increase temperature to 20-22°C (68-72°F) to trigger spawning.
• Egg Laying & Hatching:
  • Females lay thousands of eggs, which hatch in 3-5 days.
  • Fry must be kept in a separate pond or tank and fed infusoria or powdered fry food.

Additional Resources

If you love Benigoi Koi, you may also be interested in:

• Chagoi (Brown Koi) – Friendly and fast-growing koi.
• Yamabuki Ogon (Golden Koi) – A metallic yellow koi with strong body shape.
• Hi Utsuri (Red and Black Koi) – A bold red and black koi with sumi patterns.