Koi carp, these magnificent ornamental fish, are true aquatic gems. Among them, the rarest Koi carp attracts the most attention. Today, I'm going to tell you about the famous S-LegendA Kohaku koi carp that broke all sales records, and what makes certain carps so precious.
Koi carp - €1,600,000
S-Legend, a 101 cm Kohaku, created a sensation when her price reached the astronomical sum of €1,600,000. This 9-year-old female has become the most expensive fish in the world. But what makes a koi carp so valuable?
Criteria influencing the price of koi carp
The price of these superb fish is influenced by several factors:
- Body shape: This criterion is crucial and accounts for 50 % of the assessment.
- The pattern (colour design) : The beauty of the designs is essential.
- Skin quality : Carp with shiny, flawless skin are highly sought-after.
- Sex: As females are generally larger and more robust than males, they are in greater demand.
Females almost always have the advantage, as they grow more and add to the aesthetic value of their pond.
The high cost of importing
We often forget that, to buy quality Koi carp, you also have to factor in transport costs. Air freight for these precious fish is not cheap. Adding €300 per parcel can quickly add up! As a hobbyist and pet shop salesman myself, I can't help but sympathise with enthusiasts who sometimes make difficult economic choices.
Japanese breeders, such as those in the Niigata region, are renowned for their meticulous art of selecting and rearing carp. It is common practice to reject the majority of fry that do not meet quality standards. Yes, there is real craftsmanship in the world of Koi carp.
The price of koi carp
You're probably wondering why a Koi carp can cost so much. Here is an overview of prices some popular varieties :
- Kōhaku: Up to millions of euros.
- Sanke: Up to 350,000 $.
- Showa : Up to 70,000 $.
- Doitsu : Up to 20,000 $.
- Kumonryu : Up to 15,000 $.
- Ogon : Up to 10,000 $.
Even a medium-quality Koi carp can cost around €1,500, which represents a significant investment. So my friends, get your wallets ready if you want to adorn your pond with one of these beauties.
The historical origins and culture of koi carp
Koi carp have a fascinating history. Introduced to Japan from China, they were initially bred for their flesh. It was only later that chromatic mutations led to the popularity of the coloured varieties we know today.
After the Second World War, the world market for Koi carp expanded thanks to air transport and the creation of farms outside Japan. However, Japanese breeders remained masters of their trade, their expertise justifying the high prices of their fish.
Sales records and the cultivation of an art form
Clearly, the art of growing Koi carp is a serious business. S-Legend isn't just a fish, it's also a symbol of Japanese excellence. A funny anecdote: in the pet shop, we had a customer who wanted to name every Koi carp in his pond after famous samurai. Of course, he didn't have a €1,600,000 Kohaku in his pond, but he was a real enthusiast!
Koi carp selection
The quality of Koi carp is assessed according to several criteria:
- Body : Body shape, the most important criterion.
- Pattern : Patterns and designs.
- Skin quality : Shine and flawlessness.
- Gender : Preference for females.
Japanese breeders are true artists, quickly recognising young carp with potential. The key is to maintain very high standards in order to preserve the quality of the line.
Exports and the international market
The market has taken on an international dimension, especially since the boom in air travel after the Second World War. From New York to Paris, enthusiasts are looking to acquire the aquatic grail.
Here is a table showing the main varieties and their average prices:
| Variety | Average price (€) |
|---|---|
| Kohaku | 1.600.000 |
| Sanke | 350.000 |
| Showa | 70.000 |
| Doitsu | 20.000 |
| Kumonryu | 15.000 |
| Ogon | 10.000 |
The market is certainly diverse, but it is clear that high-quality Koi represent a significant investment.
Other varieties of koi carp: a question of value
Among the many varieties of Koi carp, some can fetch high prices. But what determines their value?
- Origin : Japanese carp are renowned for their excellent quality.
- Breeding : The expertise of Japanese breeders is unquestionable.
- Selection criteria : Shape, pattern, skin quality and gender.
In the professional Koi world, there's one golden rule: never compromise on quality. My first lesson, as a young pet shop floor manager, was to understand the importance of the strict standards imposed by breeders. It left a lasting impression on me!
Ultimately, investing in a Koi carp is also investing in a part of Japan's fascinating culture and history, synonymous with refinement and excellence. So, are you ready to take the plunge and welcome a precious Koi carp into your pond?
You can also watch the video of our friend Toopet discovering €7,000 worth of fish!
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