The Koi come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The black Koi differ from the others due to their pattern and coloring only. They can grow up to 36 inches in length, so they need to be kept in large ponds. It can age up to 35 years. These fish can be seen in outdoor ponds all the time throughout the globe.

Types:

There are many species of this kind of fish. First is the Magoi, which can grow in really great lengths and one of the first of all black mutations. When viewed from above, they may look black, but their real color is actually deep bronze. Because of their great possibilites in terms of size, the Magoi blood is being reintroduced to other species to maximize their growth potential.

The Karasu (which means "crow" in Japanese) is another of those extremely old species. It is characterized by its black fins and body. They can also have a white or an orange belly.

The Matsukawabake has areas or white on its body. This has the ability to change its color. Due to environmental effects and their diet, their color changes from a duller or brighter shade of color. The temperature of the water or seasons can change their color completely, from pure white to pure black. It will return to its original color and pattern once there's a change in condition.

The Kumonryu is the most popular among these species. Its first appearance was in the 1980's. "Kumonryu" is Japanese for "dragon fish". It has been called as such because its body is reminiscent of the bodies of dragons represented in ancient paintings. Some people think that they look like dragons ascending through the sky's white clouds. It has the ability to change its pattern and color.

The broad array of colors of this species makes them a great attraction to spectators. Besides this, what's even more exciting is that you can own a fish that can truly change its color quickly right before your eyes, like some black Koi can!