The name “Kumonryu” derives from a legend depicting a dragon (Ryu) that transforms into a cloud, racing through the sky.
The Kumonryu is believed to have been developed through the breeding of a Shusui with a Matsukawa Bakke. The following article, written by Joel Burkard/Pan Intercorp, was previously published in PONDSCAPES magazine. All rights reserved by Joel Burkard/Pan Intercorp (1995).
The category of “Kawarimono,” meaning “different things,” encompasses most koi varieties that do not fit into other established categories. Typically, new breeds start in this Kawarimono category and, upon stabilization, may be awarded their own category to receive the recognition they deserve.
In 1994, the Kumonryu achieved full recognition as a distinct category at the All Japan Combined Nishikigoi show. The Kumonryu, also known as the “Nine Crested Dragon,” is a captivating koi due to its fundamentally unstable sumi (black) patterns, which can appear or disappear without warning.
Belonging to the Doitsu lineage (originating from Germany), this koi exhibits either large mirror scales along the dorsal and lateral lines or no scales at all. Its snow-white base and jet-black sumi patterns sometimes evoke images of killer whales.
Because of the unstable nature of its sumi, the Kumonryu’s pattern can rapidly change from all white to completely black, with various intermediate variations. Although the exact causes of these changes are uncertain, contributing factors may include water temperature, water changes, water quality, pH fluctuations, diet, sexual maturity, and stress, among others.
The ever-changing nature of the Kumonryu’s pattern is what makes owning this koi such a delightful experience. When the sumi pattern lies beneath the white, waiting to emerge, it can give the skin a bluish hue. Some Kumonryu exhibit slow pattern changes that appear relatively stable, while others undergo radical transformations within a few weeks.
When selecting a Kumonryu for your pond, prioritize koi with good body confirmation, and be mindful of any deformities in the tail and pectoral fins, which are common in this variety. It’s worth noting that judges often overlook minor irregularities in the pectoral fins of Kumonryu.
Given the fluid nature of the pattern, it is more crucial to focus on the depth and quality of the sumi. Consult your dealer regarding the available bloodlines or recommended options, as bloodline ultimately plays the most significant role in koi development.
This lovely kumonryu shows why the Japanese revere the variety, Always Doitsu, note how the sumi runs from head to tail, rather than it patchers from flank to flank and over the dorsal surface. The effect is of ink calligraphy.
Kumonryu koi, which is known as the flying dragon of koi, originated from Karasugoi. They are Doitsu (scale-less) koi that have a very black (Sumi) pattern, on top of silky white skin. This fascinating koi can change colors during the year from completely black to completely white!
Kumonryu, which first appeared in the 1980s, is the most popular of a[L 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 as depicted in oriental paintings.
Kumonryu is 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. However, these fish are effective Doitsu Matsukawabake, so their patterning can change dramatica[Ly for better or worse after you have bought them. In extreme cases, the hobbyist ends up with an all-white Doitsugoi, which is valueless.
Looking to add a touch of mystique to your pond? Explore the captivating world of Kumonryu Koi. With their mesmerizing black and white patterns reminiscent of billowing clouds, Kumonryu Koi fish are sure to become the centerpiece of your aquatic haven.
If you’re interested in owning one of these enigmatic creatures, we have Kumonryu Koi for sale, including stunning Beni Kumonryu variations. Don’t miss the chance to admire the intricate details of their captivating eyes. Experience the allure of Kumonryu Koi and elevate your aquatic sanctuary to new heights.
Kumonryu. The Kumonryu is a Doitsu (German) koi that has a jet black pattern that emerges like billowing black clouds against a white background. The black pattern is variable and unstable, disappearing with changes in the water temperature, reappearing sometimes as a completely different pattern.
Beni Kumonryu are Kumonryu with the presence of a third color, red. Just like Kumonryu, Beni Kumonryu can change their pattern completely many times throughout their lifespan. Chagoi are solid colored brown or bronze koi with a subtle reticulated net pattern
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Japanese Dragon of transformation
A midnight black colored Koi fish that is named after Japanese. Dragon of transformation (this fish is said to bring about changes in life circumstances). Kumonryu Brings Change. Ogon. The platinum colored Koi fish (is said to inspire fulfillment of wealth; in the form success in business)
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Kumonryu koi – overcoming adversity | Koi fish tattoo, Koi fish
Koi fish tattoos typically represent luck or fortune; they can also represent personal strength or overcoming adversity. The color or style also change the meaning learn more about koi fish meaning behind koi fish tattoo
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How to Judge Kumonryu
How to Assess Kumonryu Koi
Sumi originally served as a protective coloration and tends to lighten when the koi is in a well-lit pond. The black coloration can significantly change based on environmental factors such as water temperature, water quality variations, and even stress. There are no strict rules governing the creation and placement of Sumi patterns on this particular koi. The value of the koi depends on the artistic quality of its markings.
In Koi shows, this koi would be classified under the “Kawari mono” category, characterized by black patterns running lengthwise along the body. If you study koi closely, you can distinguish between Kumonryu and Doitsu Shiro Utsuri by examining their Sumi. In Kumonryu, the Sumi appears as a continuous black pattern across the entire body, whereas Doitsu Shiro Utsuri exhibit separate patches of Sumi.
This variety often exhibits imperfect tails or fins, so it is important to focus on assessing its overall body shape and the depth of its Sumi coloration.
Kumonryu Koi people also ask
What is a Kumonryu koi?
Kumonryu, which is known as the flying dragon of koi, originated from Karasugoi. They are Doitsu (scale-less) koi that have a very black (Sumi) pattern, on top of a silky white skin. This fascinating koi can change colors during the year from completely black to completely white!
What is a Kikokuryu koi?
Image result for Kumonryu Koi
That is, a Kikokuryu koi is a metallic, scaleless white coloured koi with black markings. It was originally created by breeding a Kumonryu koi with a Doitsu Platinum Ogon koi which is a scaleless, metallic koi with a solid white colour.
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kumonryu koi meaning The Kumonryu, which means “Nine Crested Dragon”, is a most fascinating koi in that it’s sumi (black) is basically unstable and can appear or disappear without any warning. The Kumonryu is of the Doitsu (German) lineage, and has either large mirror scales along the dorsal and lateral line ,or no scales at all.
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what do black kumonryu koi represent Named after the Japanese dragon of transformation, the black and white koi fish, called Kumonryu, represents future life changes.
kumonryu koi fish tattoo Kumonryu (translated means “Nine Crested Dragon”) are … Kumonryu Koi Koi Fish Drawing, Koi Fish Tattoo, Fish Drawings, Fish Garden,.
kumonryu koi with whiskers The whiskers and scales of the Koi are said to resemble that of a dragon
kumonryu koi color change They are scaless and their pattern actually changes throughout the year. No one is absolutely sure what causes the color change, but the two best theories are a change in temperature or a change in pH. Kumonryu are usually black in the winter and the white usually appears in the spring and summer.
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Learn more about other different types of koi