Koi: A Handbook on Keeping Nishikigoi

by Servaas de Kock, Ronnie Watt

Caring for and showing koi, affectionately called "living jewels" or "swimming flowers." With full-color photographs, annotated illustrations and detailed, expert how-to advice, this guidebook is ideal for the koi hobbyist. Koi begins with the history of koi-keeping, from the first known use of the word "koi"(about 500 BC) to the early 1900s, when collectors began breeding them for specific colors and metallics. The markings and patterns of koi are their most important feature, and the authors detail these in depth and define the Japanese terms used to describe them. In addition to the section on the 15 varieties of koi, or nishikigoi, the authors address the care and exhibition of koi. Topics Koi is a complete and practical reference on these enjoyable, enchanting creatures.

160 pages, Paperback

First published November 15, 2006

Reviews

[Alger Smythe-Hopkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was a moment about a month ago where I thought, "hey a koi pond would be really nice".

This book cured me of that fantasy, but in the best way possible. Loaded with information and facts, I came to a realistic assessment that given the size of my lot, installing a swimming pool would be cheaper. Koi have economies of scale, so if you are going to go koi, go big.