Koi fish, known for their vibrant colors and graceful movements, have a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. Originally from East Asia, koi were first bred in Japan, where they were originally raised as food. However, their beauty and the variety of colors they displayed soon caught the attention of local farmers and fishermen, who began to selectively breed them for ornamental purposes.
The first recorded instance of koi breeding was in the early 19th century in Japan’s Niigata Prefecture. There, koi were selectively bred for specific color patterns, eventually resulting in the vibrant and diverse colorations that are so prized today. Koi fish have become a symbol of perseverance, strength, and good fortune in Japanese culture, with many believing that they bring prosperity and happiness.