The Beautiful Ochiba Koi is a Stunning Blend of Two High-Quality Japanese Koi Fish. The ochiba koi, more frequently known as ochiba Shigure, is a Japanese carp with brocaded patterns.
The Ochiba Koi fish has this delicate yet elegant appearance. The name "Ochiba" comes from the Japanese word for "leaves of autumn on the water," and The name "Golden Dragon" may also be used to describe their bright reticulated scales, which are arranged in a way that suggests floating leaves on a still pond and trees with golden leaves mirrored on its surface.
The characteristics of an Ochiba Shigure resemble a light blue to gray koi fish with a yellow, copper, or bronze color pattern that is similar to that of Kohaku. The ochiba koi is classified under Kawarimono, which is a catch-all term for the brocaded carps that can't be classified into any of the existing categories.
Ochiba Koi - Origins
The Ochiba Koi is a cross between Chagoi and Soragoi broodstock. The golden-brown chagoi koi and the gray Soragoi were bred in the mid-nineteenth century, and the Ochiba Koi were their offspring.
The chagoi is a peaceful variety of common carp that may be found in various shades of brown. Their scales are mostly Ginrin, which means they glitter in the sunlight. It can also have a Fukurin effect in which its scales are outlined in black, producing a fishnet look.
The Soragoi is a very sociable kind of Koi fish. The silver or gray coat of this breed is distinctive. These fish are also known as Ginrin, giving them a glistening look.
Ochiba Koi are a type of koi that have two-colored patterns that mix the brown or copper hue of Chagoi with the silver or grey tone of Soragoi.
Ochiba Koi - Appearance
Ochiba Koi's background color is a light blue-gray. A brown pattern covers this foundation hue. The Ochiba takes its name from the brown markings on its body, which are thought to be autumn leaves floating on the "water" of the bluish base.
Ochiba Koi have a wide range of color variants, with some having a reddish copper or darker brown tone and others having a deeper, darker bronze tone.
The Ochiba (Ochiba) Koi fish come in two types: Doitsu (fully scaled) and Wagoi (partially scaled or scaleless). The scales on the Ochiba's base color are usually reticulated, giving the body of the Ochiba a fishnet appearance.
The Ochiba female has a big tummy and small pectoral fins. They are more likely to swim sideways. Female koi may be distinguished by the narrowing of their tails before the tail, whereas males have slender bodies that are torpedo shaped. This feature may be observed when viewed from any angle. Because of their colors, the Doitsu strain of Ochiba koi is referred to as an antique.
Ochiba Koi - Temperament
The Ochiba Koi fish is one of the most pleasant Japanese koi breeds, derived from two of the most popular types of Japanese koi. To increase the sociability of their pond's population, some Koi collectors use Ochiba koi fish.
Ochiba Koi will frequently be the first fish in the pond to accept food from a human's hand. They learn to recognize their feeders quickly, and when the feeder appears, they are very likely to leap.
Ochiba Koi - Care
Ochiba Koi fish require the same level of care as other varieties of Koi. These creatures are omnivores, therefore it's critical to provide them with a balanced diet that includes both plants and animals.
The best conditions for Ochiba Koi are artificial cold-water ponds. They are resilient to cold winter weather as long as the pond's bottom does not freeze and there is enough surface area open for gas exchange.
Ochiba koi, like other koi, prefer cold water with a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They hibernate during the winter when their metabolism slows down, which eliminates the need to be fed when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
To accommodate at least 1000 gallons of water, a koi pond must be at least 3 feet long and no less than 3 feet deep. Smaller koi fish ponds are appealing to many koi enthusiasts, but when they discover that the space isn't enough to fully expand their collection, they regret their decision.
It is critical to keep koi in a pond exclusively for them. Although they are quite sociable, you must be cautious about the type of other fish if you wish to keep them together. With a little effort and attention, you may enjoy the company of these lovely creatures for years to come. Because Ochiba koi are rather pricey in comparison to other freshwater fish, you must take good care of them to ensure that your financial investment is worthwhile.
Ochiba Koi - Varieties
Today, koi breeding has exploded in popularity. Many distinct varieties of Ochiba are now available. Here are some of them:
There are two types of Doitsu Ochiba: one is scale-less, and the other one has metallic colors. Gin Rin Ochiba has a sparkling appearance. A cross between a red and white Kohaku and an Ochiba has resulted in an attractive gray and red patterned koi and this is another sub variety.
Ochiba Koi - Breeding
The breeding of koi fish is difficult, especially when caring for the fry (offspring), as the mother koi will lay a huge number of eggs – like other types of fish. The professionals are generally the only ones who perform the breeding, although some koi fans have been successful in producing their pets by carefully picking the parents based on their desired end result.
The koi fish may produce hundreds of young in a single spawning, although not all of them are considered Ochiba Koi due to various factors. Those that are culled in most cases are fed to some specific fish, such as the Arowana.
Characteristics of Good Ochiba
An excellent Ochiba should have all of the characteristics of a good Kohaku. You want the foundation color to be consistent with excellent scale reticulation. The scales should not be misaligned.
You'll want a substantial contrast between the base color and the patterned plate of the other colors on the back. The pattern should be attractive and more importantly, well-balanced. The number of steps in the pattern is also significant. You need a good kiwa (pattern edge) on each piece of the pattern.
You don't want to smear or fade edges here, because this is a signal that the design will fade or even vanish completely. A good body confirmation is also crucial, and the fish should appear strong and robust. In general, it should appear to be powerful.
FAQ:
Are Ochiba Koi Friendly?
The Ochiba is a relative newcomer when it comes to koi, having been established only since about the mid-nineties. It's actually a cross between a gray Soragoi and a golden brown chagoi. The Ochiba has inherited the good reputation of its two ancestors, both of whom are reputed to be the most friendly koi.
What Makes a Good Ochiba Koi?
The scale of the ground should be consistent with excellent reticulation. There should be no scales that are out of alignment. A good balance is essential when it comes to the colors on the back. You should aim for a high-contrast combination of base color and a patterned plate of other hues. The pattern should be visually attractive, and more significantly balanced.
What Is an Ochiba Shigure Koi Fish?
The Koi Ochiba Shigure is a quietly elegant and beautiful koi, which translates to "autumn leaves on the water." The delicate reticulated scales have a resemblance to leaves floating on a still pond, with the golden-leaved trees reflected in the water.
How Long Can an Ochiba Koi Live in the Pond?
Ochiba Koi can live up to 50 years if maintained in a suitable environment and given proper care.
Do Ochiba Koi Need a Filter?
Yes, all koi need filtration. The size of the filter will depend on the size of your pond and the number of koi you have.
What Is the Difference Between an Ochiba and a Doitsu?
The main difference between these two types is that Koi Ochiba Doitsu has no scales, while regular Ochiba does. Metallic Ochiba are also available and these have a shimmery appearance.
How Big Do Ochiba Koi Get?
Ochiba Koi can reach up to 3 feet in length.
What Is the Difference Between an Ochiba and a Gin Rin Ochiba?
The difference between these two types is that Ochiba GinRin Koi fish has a sparkly appearance due to the presence of glittery scales.
How Much Does an Ochiba Koi Cost?
The price of Ochiba koi fish may range from $50 to $500, depending on the quality and designs.
Final Thoughts:
Ochiba Koi are a popular type of koi fish that is known for its beautiful colors and patterns. They have a design similar to the Kohaku koi fish, with a blue-gray colored body. These beautiful fish are also friendly and can live up to 50 years if properly cared for.
If you are thinking of adding an Ochiba koi to your pond, then you should definitely do some research and find a reputable dealer in order to get the best and nice fish for your money. Though they are costly, they are definitely worth the investment and will bring you years of enjoyment!
