The History of Kumonryu:
Kumonryu, which first appeared in the 1980s, is the most popular of all black koi derivatives in Kawarimono. The name means 'Dragon Fish' and is applied to these koi because their markings are reminiscent of the coiled bodies of these mythical beasts depicted in Oriental paintings. These fish are effectively Doitsu Matsukawabake, so their patterning can change dramatically.
Kumonryu Identification:
Kumonryu are always Doitsu, which means the delineation between areas of white and sumi is sharp. Patterning is highly variable; the best examples show large, wavy-edged blocks of white along the flanks and dorsal surface.
Koi Definitions:
Doitsu - Koi with no scales other than enlarged scales along the lateral line and two lines running either side of the dorsal fin
Karasu - Koi with matt black fins and body and a white or orange belly
Kawarimono - Class for all non-metallic koi not included in any other group
Matsukawabake - Non-metallic black and white koi, whose pattern changes significantly with season/water temperature |
