Koi Carp

Koi Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

 

Size: up to 75cm; can weigh 10 kg

 

Koi are the national emblem of Japan. Koi are bred as ornamental fish to be viewed from above, which is why they are well patterned along the back. Koi have been banned in New Zealand where they are considered a pest because they dig on the bottom of rivers, destroying waterways and eating native fish eggs. The exact origins of koi are unclear but they are thought to be a cross between the European carp and goldfish.