Tri Color Koi – A Living Work of Art in Your Pond

Graceful. Symbolic. Timeless.

The Tri Color Koi, also known as Taisho Sanke, is one of the most admired and time-honored varieties of ornamental carp in the world. With its bold red, black, and white patterning, the Tri Color Koi adds both elegance and tradition to any koi pond. Whether you're a seasoned koi keeper or just discovering the joy of pond life, this fish offers beauty, personality, and a strong connection to Japanese koi culture.

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Quick Facts:

• Common Name: Tri Color Koi, Taisho Sanke

• Scientific Name: Cyprinus carpio

• Origin: Japan (selectively bred from Common Carp)

• Size: Up to 24–36 inches

• Lifespan: 20–30+ years with proper care

• Temperament: Peaceful, social

• Minimum Pond Size: 500 gallons

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Appearance:

The Tri Color Koi features a pristine white base adorned with bold red (hi) and black (sumi) patches. Each fish has a one-of-a-kind pattern, making every specimen truly unique. The contrast between the three colors is both vibrant and harmonious, and high-quality specimens exhibit sharp edges between color zones and symmetry across the body.

? Fun Fact: In Japanese koi judging, balanced color distribution and strong pattern contrast are key qualities of top-grade Tri Color Koi.

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Behavior:

Tri Color Koi are known for their peaceful and social nature. They readily recognize their keepers, often rising to the surface at feeding time and even hand-feeding once accustomed to their environment. They swim gracefully and interact well with other koi and goldfish in the pond.

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Pond Requirements:

To keep Tri Color Koi healthy and thriving:

• Pond Size: At least 500 gallons for juveniles; larger is better for adults

• Filtration: Strong mechanical and biological filtration to maintain water clarity

• Depth: 3+ feet to allow safe overwintering in cold climates

• Aeration: Essential for oxygen-rich water

• Plants & Shade: Floating plants can offer shade and protect colors from sun bleaching

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Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 65–75°F (can tolerate a wide range)

• pH: 7.0–8.0

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm (regular testing recommended)

• Hardness: Moderate

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Diet:

Tri Color Koi are omnivores and benefit from a diverse diet.

Feeding Tips:

• High-quality koi pellets (wheat germ in cooler seasons)

• Fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., watermelon, peas, lettuce)

• Protein-rich treats like shrimp or earthworms

• Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality

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Why Choose a Tri Color Koi?

✅ Striking and iconic coloration
✅ Peaceful nature and long lifespan
✅ Ideal for koi ponds and water gardens
✅ Symbolic in Japanese culture—representing perseverance, strength, and luck

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Final Thoughts:

Whether you’re creating a peaceful backyard retreat or building a show-quality koi collection, the Tri Color Koi is a perfect choice. With its serene beauty, engaging personality, and deep cultural significance, it brings life and character to any pond setting.