Koi
Cyprinus carpio (domesticated)
Colorful pond fish bred in Japan from common carp, with over 100 varieties of reds, whites, blacks and golds.
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About the Koi
Koi are domesticated common carp first bred for color in Japan. There are over 100 varieties, in red, white, black, yellow, brown, gray, green and many combinations. They can grow up to about 3 feet long. Koi live best in outdoor ponds with clean water and shade, because they can get sunburned! They eat mostly plants, such as rice and corn, but will also eat shrimp.[1]
Quick facts
- Scientific name
- Cyprinus carpio (domesticated)[1]
- Size
- Up to about 3 feet long.[1]
- Diet
- Mostly plants, such as rice and corn, plus shrimp.[1]
- Habitat
- Outdoor ponds and water gardens.[1]
- Where it lives
- Originally bred in Japan; now kept on 6 of 7 continents.[1]
- Group life
- Social fish that swim in schools.[1]
- Conservation status
- Domestic. Not assessed by the IUCN.[1]
Fun facts
Vocabulary
- domesticated
- Tamed and raised by people over many generations.
- variety
- A type within a species with its own look, bred by people.
- carp
- A large freshwater fish.
- school
- A group of fish swimming together.
- ornamental
- Kept because it is pretty.
See it in person
- Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and AquariumOmaha, Nebraska · Simmons Aviary and LagoonSee this area on the zoo's website ↗
These zoos had this animal when we gathered our information, but animals sometimes move. Check the zoo's website or contact the zoo before you visit.
Sources
- [1] San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Koi.” https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/koi (accessed 2026-10-02)
Facts last checked 2026-10-02.
