April - May 2016 www.akakoi.com.au

JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN KOI ASSOCIATION INC

AKA Reporter

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Apr i l — May 2016 1

April – May 2016 Administrative Members and contact details _____________________________________ 2President’s Report __________________________________________________________ 3 AKA Auction Dates _________________________________________________________ 3 35th Annual Koi Show update ______________________________________________ 4-5 Meeting Notices and Agendas, New Members, AKA Auction Dates, AKA Committee Meeting Dates, KSA Auction Dates ____________________________________________ 7AKA’s Koi Show Variety Classification _________________________________________ 9Japanes Gardens, East Gosford _______________________________________________ 10All about Showa Kate Andrews ______________________________________________ 13Clay and water quality _____________________________________________________ 22Table Show results _________________________________________________________ 24

Thank you to our advertisers...Australian Koi Farm _________________________________________ Inside front cover Clear-Pond ____________________________________________________________ 8 Koi Keeper’s Supplies _______________________________________________________ 21 Clearwater Lakes and Ponds _________________________________________________ 21AKA Members’ Supplies ________________________________________Inside back coverThe Pond Man ____________________________________________________ Back cover

For all advertising enquiries please contact Gordon Kilborn 02 9153 9012 or 0429 664 916

AKA Reporter

AKA Reporter is published by the Australian Koi Association Inc. ABN 91 669 147 584

Advertising enquiries: Gordon Kilborn 02 9153 9012 or 0429 664 916Newsletter production www.petergibson.com.au All correspondence to:The Secretary, Australian Koi Association, 17 Westmore Drive, West Pennant Hills NSW 2125

DisclaimerThe opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors, and do not necessarily represent those of the Australian Koi Association or its management. Nor does the Association accept responsibility for the claims made by advertisers or members in respect of any service or items offered for sale herein.

© 2014 Australian Koi Association Inc.

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AKA REPORTER2

The Australian Koi Association Inc.PatronProfessor Simon Chapman AO PhD FASSA Executive OfficersPresident Ian Andrews 0418 255 897Vice President Graham Fameli 0403 665 006Secretary Carol Durrant 0415 655 063Treasurer Bryce Hough (02) 9755 2850 (Ph/Fax) / 0408 882 025Public Officer John Rhodes (02) 9661 4735

Committee MembersShow Coordinator Paul Miglionico (02) 9862 0472 / 0415 834 529Show Support Group Graham and Lee Fameli 0412 304 190 Martin Rocliffe 0407 475 757 John Ling 0411 156 648 Boun Keakham 0434 232 271 Rene Smeets 0423 481 155 Kevin Wong 0418 182 818Membership Officer David Durrant 0414 834 499 (Subscriptions to PO Box 68 St Clair NSW 2759)Supply Officers Ron and Max Farrugia (02) 9533 2546 / 0403 029 532Auction Master Bill Youl (02) 9629 2968 / 0412 700 638Assistant Auction Master Grahame Fameli 0403 665 006 AKA ReporterEditor Ian Andrews 0418 255 897Photography John Ling 0411 156 648Editorial Kate Andrews (02) 9871 2483Advertising/Distribution Gordon Kilborn (02) 9153 9012 / 0429 664 916

Committee Support PanelPublicity Alf Mizzi (02) 9555 6497Librarian David Tu 0418 689 698Catering George and Betty Ludbrook (02) 9602 2493Social Secretary VacantSizing and Assets John Rhodes (02) 9661 4735Webmaster and Facebook VacantTable Show Registrar Barbara Walter (02) 9738 1320

Website www.akakoi.com.au Facebook www.facebook.com/AustralianKoiAssociation Life MembersEthel Allen*; Jack Cohen*; Mary Cohen; Max Farrugia; Ron Farrugia; Barbara & Bryce Hough; Arthur Johnston; Gordon Kilborn; Yvonne Louis; Betty & George Ludbrook; Dorothy Miglionico; Paul Miglionico; Ken Newton; Dave Pogson*; Arthur Robinson; Alan Walter*; Barbara Walter; Harry Watson*; Robert Wood*; Heinz Zimmermann *Deceased

All correspondenceAustralian Koi Association, 17 Westmore Drive, West Pennant Hills NSW 2125

Apr i l — May 2016 3

AKA’s 35th Annual Koi Show is just around the corner and this is the first time we will welcome a ZNA Judge from Japan, Mr Shoji Saito. Our final details are in place for the running of this year’s event on Sunday 17th

April at Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park. Also this year we welcome the Membership of the Bonsai & Penjing Societies to add further interest and support to hopefully attract increased attendance. It is hoped this will be the first of a long partnership to the mutual

benefit of all our hobbies.I hope I can get the support of volunteers to

help for setting it up on the Saturday and on the Sunday with the running of the show. As they say, ‘many hands make light work’. Please let our Show Coordinater Paul Miglionico know if you may be available to assist.

This is a great event to attend, so why not bring the children or grandchildren and support your fellow members who are exhibiting their koi on the day.

Our Show Prize Presentation night will be held at Memories Restaurant, Bankstown Trotting Club. Arrival 6.45 – 7.00 pm with dinner served at 7.45 pm. Please contact Bryce Hough 9755 2850 to book a seat.

The Dave Pogson Breeders’ Trophy will be held on the May Meeting night. Each entry must be of 10 koi bred or raised from last year’s spawning. Entries can be all one variety or a mixture of different varieties, so members can now bring in as many lots of 10 koi as they can manage. Last year was a record for the number of entries so lets see it improve from that. Just remember a suitable container to hold your 10 koi in and also air line and air stone.

It’s going to be a really busy time and I hope that all members continue to support your Club and attend as many of these functions as possible and say hello to our international guest. See you at the 35th Annual Large Koi Show.

(The Show set up starts at 10.00 am on Saturday and we would welcome any helping hands).

Yours in koi…

Ian Andrews President AKA

President’s Report

AKA auction dates

Held at Auburn Botanic Gardens (entry from Killeen Street, Auburn). Commencing at 10.00 am. Quality fish at reasonable prices! Food and refreshments available. Fish food and other fish keeping supplies also available.

Bankstown City NSW Chapter Zen Nippon Airinkai

Sunday 3rd April 2016Sunday 19th June 2016 Sunday 7th August 2016 Sunday 25th September 2016 Sunday 6th November 2016

AKA REPORTER4

35th Annual Koi Show update

Ian Andrews, President AKA

I want to bring you up to date on progress so far with our 35th Annual Koi Show...and to say that I am really excited that this will be one of the biggest and best Koi Shows we have ever staged.

This being our 35th Show is a year I feel should be a milestone for us to celebrate.

We have combined this year for the first time with the Autumn Bonsai & Penjing Expo which will add a wonderful atmosphere to the events as some of the trees on display will be worth many thousands of dollars. They expect crowds of visitors supporting the Expo, many of whom have koi ponds as well.

This year we will be holding the event for the first time in the main forecourt area of the main event complex of the Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park. This area is twice as large as last year and will be under cover and under lights. Access (more details later) for the koi will be via both ends and parking will be in P4 Parking Bay nearby.

Show setup will commence on Saturday 16 April at 10.00 am and all being well we expect to be finished by 1.00 pm. We would like as much assistance as possible so please support this show set-up if you can.

The online Show Entry Portal at www.akakoi.com.au is now open and ready to receive your

koi entries. If you do not have computer access and

therefore cannot use this portal please send me your koi photos with the details written on the back and I will enter them for you or you can contact me by phone for technical support.

Costs this year remain unchanged at $5 per koi for the first ten entries ($50) then free from there onwards.

As usual we will be providing breakfast juice and bacon and egg rolls to all exhibitors, thanks once again to the generous support of Ros and Lars Lindberg (Allcare Ponds)

Our two ZNA Judges this year are Mr Shoji Saito (Assistant Certified) and our own Mr Lee Nguyen (Local Certified).

The photos below and on the next page shows Mr Shoji Saito who will be AKA’s first Japanese Judge. He is a wonderful guy and a great koi friend whom I sure everyone will enjoy meeting. His English is very good so please say hi and make him feel very welcome.

This year we will be also having an AKA Koi Show t-shirt celebrating our 35th Show. Exhibitors and helpers will receive the discount price of $25 per shirt. (Non-Exhibitors $35 per shirt).

Please confirm your t-shirt size with Gordon Kilborn on 0429 664 910 ASAP so they can be ready to wear on Show Day.

Apr i l — May 2016 5

A couple of changes to the koi varieties this year:

(i) Metallic Matsuba will revert back into Ogon (Hikarimuji).

To fall inline with ZNA koi show trends overseas we have introduced this year:

(ii) Kawarimono A for multi coloured koi: Hajiro, Hageshiro, Yotsujiro, Suminagashi, Matsukawabake, Ochiba Shigure, Kage Showa, Kage Utsuri, Kanoko, Ginga and Yuki Asagi.

(ii) Kawarimono B for single coloured koi: Karasugoi, Kigoi, Benigoi, Chagoi, Soragoi, Midorigoi, Matsuba and Karashigoi.

And lastly...

AKA’s 35th Show Presentation DinnerBankstown Trotting Club 178 Eldridge Rd, Condell ParkMonday 18 April at 7.30 pm (Dinner about 8.00 pm).

Historically this has been a great night of friendship, fun and a celebration of those amongst us who have been fortunate enough to have their koi selected as winners. Its great to support these Members and we always have a strong representation of the wives and partners present also. Hope you can form a table of ten.

Bookings are essential. Tickets are $25 per head, normally $45 (AKA is co-sponsoring $20 per head) as well allocating $700 on the bar towards drinks.

Please contact Bryce Hough on 9755 2850 / 0408 882 025 to reserve your place.

This year there are a couple of additional trophies to be won:• Most Unique Koi to be selected by Paul

Miglionico and Kate Andrews• The Malaysian Friendship Trophy, as well

as the usual KLAN Friendship Trophy, the South African Friendship Trophy, Netherlands Friendship Award and the Koi Society of Western Australia Friendship Award (to be selected again this year by our good friend Mr Allan Bennett).

The Friendship Trophies are highly sought after and make a wonderful permanent keepsake for your trophy case.

So you can see it is shaping up to be a great

show this year, one I hope we can all be proud of and a show that hopefully attracts a whole bunch of new visitors and potential members for the future.

Thank you for your assistance and I hope you can once again support our hobby and your koi club. ■

ZNA JudgeMr Shoji Saito

REMINDER

Nichirin MagazineAll members that wish to renew their subscription ($100) to the Japanese koi magazine Nichirin should contact Bryce Hough on 02 9755 2850 or 0408 882 025.

AKA REPORTER6

Apr i l — May 2016 7

Join our monthly meetings

All members and friends are invited to attend our meetings, at which we discuss the general business of the Association, hear presentations from koi experts and enjoy the social company of other koi fanciers. Our meetings also include a table show competition and a raffle draw.

Meetings are held in a family-friendly venue at the Scottish Hall, 4 Weigand Avenue, Bankstown, on the first Wednesday of each month. ■ April Meeting

The April General Meeting of the Australian Koi Association Inc will be held at the Scottish Hall, 4 Weigand Avenue Bankstown, Wednesday 6 April 2016, 7.30 pm. 1. Welcome to members and guests 2. Apologies3. Confirmation of minutes of previous monthly

general meeting held 2 March4. Raffle5. Reports6. General Business7. Raffle Draw ■

May Meeting

The May General Meeting of the Australian Koi Association Inc will be held at the Scottish Hall, 4 Weigand Avenue Bankstown, Wednesday 4 May 2016, 7.30 pm. 1. Welcome to members and guests 2. Apologies3. Confirmation of minutes of previous monthly

general meeting held 6 April.4. Raffle5. Reports6. General Business7. Raffle Draw ■

Contributions to the AKA Reporter

We welcome any contributions to this newsletter. If you have news, articles or photographs that you think would be of interest to members, send them to Ian Andrews either by email (ian.

andrews@fujifilm.com.au) or call Ian on 0418 255 897. Articles should preferably be submitted in MS Word or similar word processing files. Photographs should be submitted as separate files, not embedded in the article itself. ■

New members

New members are always assured of a friendly welcome when attending the AKA’s monthly meetings. Help and advice is available if required and our Supply Officers can provide you with koi food and accessories at favourable prices. Call our membership officer (see details on page 2).

New members this month are:Linda & Steve EvansHuy & Mai Truong ■

KSA auction dates Sunday 22 May 2016 Sunday 10 July 2016 Sunday 11 September 2016 Sunday 23 October 2016 Sunday 4 December 2016 ■

AKA News & Events

AKA Committee Meeting Dates

AKA Committee meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday

of every month.Wed 27 April 2016Wed 25 May 2016Wed 22 June 2016Wed 27 July 2016Wed 24 Aug 2016Wed 28 Sep 2016Wed 26 Oct 2016Wed 23 Nov 2016

AKA REPORTER8

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Apr i l — May 2016 9

KOHAKUKohaku

SANKESanke, Aka Sanke

SHOWAShowa, Hi Showa, Kindai Showa

UTSURIMONOShiro Utsuri, Hi Utsuri, Ki Utsuri

BEKKOShiro Bekko, Aka Bekko, Ki Bekko

ASAGIAsagi, Asagi with kado gin

SHUSUIShusui, Hi Shusui, Hana Shusui, Ki Shusui

KOROMOKoromo, Ai Goromo, Sumi Goromo, Budo Goromo, Koromo Sanke, Koromo Showa, Goshiki, Goshiki Sanke, Goshiki Showa

KAWARIMONO AHajiro, Hageshiro, Yotsujiro, Suminagashi, Matsukawabake, Ochiba Shigure, Kage Showa, Kage Utsuri, Kanoko, Ginga, Yuki Asagi

KAWARIMONO BKarasugoi, Kigoi, Benigoi, Chagoi, Soragoi, Midorigoi, Matsuba, Karashigoi

HIKARI MUJI (OGON)Lemon Ogon, Yamabuki Ogon, Nezu Ogon, Platinum Ogon, Orange Ogon, Cream Ogon and all Kinginrin Hikari Muji, Gin Matsuba, Kin Matsuba HIKARI MOYOHariwake, Platinum Kohaku, Yamatonishiki, Kujaku, Shoshikubai

HIKARI UTSURIKin Showa, Gin Showa, Gin Shiro, Kin Ki Utsuri

TANCHOTancho Kohaku, Tancho Sanke, Tancho Showa, Tancho Goshiki, all Ginrin Tancho in these varieties and all Doitsu Tancho in these varieties

KINGINRIN AKinginrin Kohaku, Kinginrin Sanke, Kinginrin Showa, Ginrin Shiro Utsuri

KINGINRIN BKinrin Hi Utsuri, Kinrin Ki Utsuri and all the Kinginrin koi except Kinginrin A, Hikarimuji and Tancho

METALLIC DOITSUDoitsu Ogon, Platinum Doitsu, Mizuho Ogon, Kujaku Doitsu, Doitsu Kin Showa, Kikusui, Ginsui, Kinsui, Kikokuryu, Kin Kikokuryu, Kikusui, Kinsui, Ginsui

NON METALLIC DOITSUDoitsu Kohaku, Doitsu Sanke, Doitsu Showa, Doitsu Utsuri, Doitsu Bekko, Kosui, Doitsu Matsuba, Kumonryu, Beni Kumonryu, Doitsu Matsuba and all Doitsu Kawarimono

AKA’s Koi Show Variety Classification

AKA REPORTER10

Martin Rocliffe

My wife Mags and I recently took her brother Richard from the UK to the Japanese Gardens, East Gosford on his last day of his Australian holiday.

The centrepiece of the lobby is now a beautiful sculpture by local artist Graham Austin. It shows a one metre Hi Ursuri, Tancho and Yamabuki koi all curved into ‘G shapes’ to reflect Gosford Council.

The centre has its own koi pond which has plenty of healthy looking koi (although no show winners). The Japanese gardens commemorate the partnership between Gosford and Edogawa in Japan.

Central Coast Branch KSA have links with the Japanese Gardens, having held Koi shows there and also acted as ‘Consultants’ on the large display pond. I know that AKA also visited the gardens on their pond tour recently.

I heartily recommend a visit to the gardens and the Point Cafe. Entry is free and there is normally an art exhibition going on. ■

Japanese Gardens, East Gosford

Apr i l — May 2016 11

AKA REPORTER12

Apr i l — May 2016 13

Kate Andrews

Showa, or more correctly, Showa Sanshoku, simply indicates the fact that this variety of Nishikigoi is named for the Japanese Showa era, during which it was first developed. Different styles of Showa create very different and fascinating impressions making this variety of koi widely appealing to koi keepers.

How the variety developedShowa (a black-based koi with white and red patterns) is one of the three most highly appreciated koi varieties that form the so-called “Go-Sanke” group with Kohaku (a white koi with red patterns) and Sanke (a white-based koi with red and black patterns). As such, their history is fairly well known, beginning in the 1920s when Mr Jukichi Hoshino is said to have crossed a Ki Utsuri (a black-based koi with yellow patterns) with a Kohaku resulting in the first Showa. Early Showa are reported as having had yellow rather than red (hi) patterns and poor quality white skin. Ki Utsuri black (sumi), developed from Tetsu (Iron) Magoi lineage, was often blurred and light, (nabe or greyish sumi). This style of sumi is still considered to appear on some Showa today as either a kage or shadowed effect or as boke (undeveloped) sumi, which never fully emerges.

Early improvement of sumi is attributed to the introduction of Asagi (blue-black) Magoi into Showa breeding programmes. Deep red hi (or beni) was first achieved in the 1940s when Mr Tomiji Kobayashi produced the famous koi which bore his name: the Kobayashi Showa. This koi established the line leading to modern Showa. Since that time enormous effort has been made to improve their quality, shape and growth characteristics by, for example, out-crossing with other high quality bloodlines like the Tomoin Kohaku.

Of all koi varieties, Showa are reported as one of the most difficult to produce and they do not breed true. Only approximately 30% of the fry from a Showa/Showa spawning will be Showa, a fact which, interestingly, has made their breeding a focus in water-poor Australia because the black Showa fry can be selected out very early after hatching. However, since culling of the selected fry is just as rigorous, the end proportion of Showa

grown on is generally very small, compared to some other varieties of koi.

Classification of Showa todayLike Utsurimono, all Showa are classified as ‘black-based’ koi. This does not mean that the koi is black – difficult to imagine for many modern Showa – it simply indicates that sumi is of a particular style and placement, providing a useful mechanism to distinguish them from “white-based” koi also having black markings, for example, Sanke.• Sumi is expected on the head of a black-

based koi. Although any pattern style is possible, often a lightening stripe (menware or hachiware) bisecting the head vertically is seen or a ‘V’ shape on the forehead with additional nose sumi.

• Sumi on the body generally appears as large blocks or jagged stripes crossing the back later-ally. Both extend well below the lateral line.

• Sumi usually appears on pectoral fins as a wedge at the joints (motoguro).

• Sumi is said to appear inside the mouth of all black-based koi, but this point is unproven.

Several different styles of Showa can be identified within the group:• Traditional Showa have a much higher pro-

portion of sumi than either hi or white.• Kindai (modern) Showa are much lighter

in style having a high proportion of hi and white and often quite minimal sumi.

• Hi Showa may appear at a glance to have no white patterns. However, they are distin-guished from Hi Utsuri (black-based koi with red patterns) by the fact that somewhere on the head or body there will be a definitive line with white skin appearing below it. Sometimes, just the fins are white. Although Hi Utsuri may have paler bellies, there is no distinctive crossover from red to white, as ob-served for Hi Showa and fins should always be red striped heavily with sumi.

• Kage Showa (very rarely seen) demonstrate a shadowy reticulated effect over all white

All about showa

AKA REPORTER14

skin such that it appears light grey. They are classified with Kawarimono.

• Boke Showa refers to a large proportion of sumi appearing unfinished, blurred and light.

• Kin-Gin-Rin Showa (at least two to three and preferably more complete rows of very shiny scales along each side of the dorsal line) is classified with Kin-Gin-Rin A.

• Kanoko Showa, another rare koi classified with Kawarimono, refers to a Showa with dappled areas of hi. Some or all hi patterns may be affected, unfortunately the result generally gives the impression hi is breaking down, not very attractive.

• Koromo Showa is a crossbred koi between Showa and Koromo (Ai Goromo or Sumi Goromo). Hi patterns show an attractive reticulated overlay is either blue or black. Koromo Showa can be classified with either Koromo or Kawarimono.

• Kin Showa is a metallic version of Showa classified with Hikari Utsuri.

• Doitsu Showa has a maximum of two lines

of large scales, one along either side of the dorsal fin and one along each lateral line. Showa style may be traditional, modern or Hi Showa.

Selecting Showa—what to look forVitally important for all koi is the figure or conformation (overall shape and proportions of head, body and fins). Young koi should look strong with a broad head and shoulders. Be careful to make sure there are no mouth, eye or fin deformities, easily missed. On larger koi, check the tail area (peduncle) is in proportion to the rest of the body, i.e. strongly muscled and that the head is in proportion to the body. A small head with a narrow nose is a common fault. Always look for a nicely rounded nose and smooth, bilaterally symmetrical bodylines. Vertically, the koi should also show a slightly rounded dorsal profile. A completely flat or slightly dished back, especially coupled with a prominent belly, could indicate a spinal problem. Examine the pectoral fins closely. The leading rays should be smooth and straight or very gently curved.

Remember: a poor figure is unlikely to

Key Points for Classifying Showa

How many colours?

ThreeRed/black/white

‘Black-based’?(sumi on head/motoguro/deep wrapping

body sumi)

‘White-based’?(no sumi on the head/striped

fins/rounded body sumi)

Sanke

Showa

Blocks and/or jagged stripes of sumi crossing the body laterally

Karasugoi

Extensive body sumi, ‘head to tail’ sumi arrangement

Apr i l — May 2016 15

A mature Showa with large, asymetrical sumi markings

A more traditional Showa has a high proportion of sumi

A Showa with more sumi at the tail and unfinished sumi over the nose

An example of a Showa with unbalanced sumi

AKA REPORTER16

An unusal doitsu Showa with highly symetrical patterning

Another memorable head pattern

Showa can give very different impressionsInteresting head patterns create very special effects on Showa

Apr i l — May 2016 17

improve and when showing, counts as a major fault that no other superb features will overcome.

Skin should appear lustrous with a silky sheen indicated by glowing bright hi, ebony sumi and pure translucent white markings. A good test of high skin quality is that scale edges should not be easily visible, especially on white skin and that the shade of white is the same from nose to tail, including fins.

On adult and mature koi, high quality white skin may also demonstrate a subtle netting effect called fukurin, more commonly associated with metallic varieties but a very beautiful and desirable feature for Go-Sanke. On a Showa, although ideally an equal balance of all three colours is sought, it is more important to have a small proportion of top quality snow-white skin, than larger, lower quality, stained or yellowed areas.

Hi and sumi markingsHi may vary in shade of red between different koi, however, depth, evenness and gloss of hi must be excellent. Ideally, no scales should be visible within hi elements, although fukurin of hi does occasionally occur. Young koi (up to three years old) excepted, white should not show around the edges of scales within hi elements when the koi flexes, as this is likely to indicate a thin and

possibly unstable hi plate. Small white windows occurring in hi patterns and uneven colour should also ring warning bells, since they often herald breakdown of the red. Conversely, a darker line appearing across each scale area within hi patterns usually means that the koi is growing rapidly and homogeneity of hi will improve as its development catches up with the koi.

Sumi on Showa is interesting. At least some of the sumi should always be incredibly dense, glossy and a deep bluish black for excellence, but areas of lighter, reticulated sumi often enhances the appearance of the koi and provides a positive appreciation point. Such areas may eventually develop into solid sumi, or solid sumi lighten, depending upon keeping conditions. For example, water hardness is important in sumi development, as is pond style. Sumi is brought out more strongly in a concrete pond than in a field mud pond in Japan. Showa are notorious for changing their appearance over time.

Trailing edges (facing the tail – kiwa) of both hi and sumi pattern elements are required to be as sharply finished as possible. Style may be either kamisori – cutting across scales, or maruzome – following scale edges to form delicate scallops. Generally, kiwa of sumi is kamisori; that of hi

The white base on the head of this Showa is discoloured

Supreme Champion...slightly bent.

AKA REPORTER18

may be either style, both sometimes seen on the same koi (konzai). Leading edges of hi and sumi patterns may demonstrate sashi, a blurred pink or blue toned rim where deep underlying colour can be seen through translucent white skin. Evenly placed and involving no more than one or two scale widths, the feature provides a lovely three-dimensional finish to patterns. Doitsu koi, lacking scales, cannot demonstrate sashi; leading and trailing edges of all pattern elements must appear knife sharp for excellence.

Hi patterns are not prescribed for Showa and may be either streaming (nagaremoyo) or, more desirably, stepped (danmoyo), since this style allows full appreciation of pattern edges. Most importantly, regardless of style, the pattern should fit the koi, balance with other pattern elements and provide interest from head to tail. On the head, the classical pattern is the shoehorn or kutsubera shape running just forward of the eyes. However, huge variation is seen in level and arrangement of hi on the head, although it must be stressed that a completely red head (menkaburi) appears very heavy and should be avoided. Eye and cheek hi is also demerited.

Sumi patterns on Showa are similar to those on Utsurimono. Deeply wrapping large blocks of sumi

or jagged lightening patterns both provide very high impact against complementary hi and white. As for hi, sumi should ideally give a balanced impression from head to tail and from side to side of the koi, but often a three-way balance can be achieved with the other colours for Showa.

Not to be forgotten when appreciating any koi; is its deportment. How each koi holds itself in the water and swims, can make or break the overall impression. The koi should be level in the water, hold out its fins, look alert and swim freely.

Why Showa?Showa are probably one of the most eye-catching of all koi varieties and it is not at all surprising that they have a huge popularity. The impression they create is also very variable and therefore widely appealing, depending upon the style of Showa. For example, the Kindai, or modern Showa is lighter, rather Sanke-like, having a higher proportion of white skin in relation to sumi. Conversely, traditional and classically patterned Showa provide a powerful and often highly dramatic impression. The chance to view a really superb Showa, like Lion Queen, regardless of style, is always a great privilege, since they are rare in comparison to the frequency of excellent examples of other varieties.

This Showa has a slightly small head, in proportion to its body volume

Unfinished sumi is common on Showa

Apr i l — May 2016 19

Showa to admire and remember

Sakura—Shinkokai winner in 2008This was a fascinating Showa, instantly eye-catching, but at 86 cm, small by modern Shinkokai standards for a winner. She probably had the best sumi (black) in the history of Showa, before or since the year she won over much larger and very worthy Kohaku contenders. Examine her sumi closely; its quality is as close to perfect as could be achieved. Dense, glossy, every element fully developed with perfect edges. Definitely a once in a lifetime Showa, from this perspective. She also had an excellent shape, good shiroji (white) and hi (red). If a fault could be found, it would be that hi patterns were rather front ended. There is only one small hi patch at the tail. However, this was definitely a Showa where all pattern elements, of incredibly high quality, interacted to create a pretty spectacular finish.

The Inazuma Showa—winner in 1992A Showa from our koi history, always memorable because of her unique Inazuma (lightening stripe) hi (red) pattern. Many koi have a partial lightening stripe, but this complete? I cannot recall another example. Following the Kobayashi Showa, famous because it was the first Showa to achieve true red, the Inazuma Showa was the very best Showa produced, 30 years ago. She has a slightly narrow head but a good body conformation. Shiroji (white) is excellent from nose to tail and hi quite deep. Comparing the pattern edges to those of Sakura however, you can really see the difference. The Inazuma Showa does not have clean edges to either hi or sumi and the sumi quality, although good, given that it is from 30 years ago, cannot compare to that of Sakura. A nice balance of sumi pattern is achieved by the fairly heavy head sumi on the opposite side to sumi on the body. Motoguro (black pectoral fin joints) are beautifully matched. As for Sakura, the pattern elements all work together to create something very special.

Sakura—one of the most memorable Showa ever.

The Inazuma Showa everyone remembers.

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Lion Queen—Shinkokai and ZNA International winner 2014/2015Over a metre long with huge volume, this enormous Showa also has two very unique and memorable features. Firstly, her very distinctive head sumi (black) pattern and secondly the incredibly deep, clean and extensive shoulder hi (red), untouched by any sumi. Although her champion status is undeniable, one of the most impressive koi ever produced, Lion Queen caused a lot of controversy. Clearly, the quality of her shiroji (white) does not measure up to our other two champions. Her head definitely has a slightly yellow cast, unfortunately enhanced on photographs. Sumi is a very deep black, but is scattered, although edges of all pattern elements are clean. Hi and shiroji are clearly visible through multiple windows in the sumi. However, coupled with the incredibly high quality, solid hi, this lacy effect of sumi is quite stunning on this magnificent Showa. Interestingly, with her black face she is not a “pretty” koi, but one we will never forget.

The Black Goshiki—the “New Showa”?Showa have always held a special place in my heart because of the incredible way in which their black, red and white patterns can work together to produce a picture transcending individual pattern elements. Looking at this black Goshiki however, we might have a new contender. We have yet to discover how these Goshiki are bred, but results like these can obviously rival Showa for impressiveness. There is no white on the body – a common feature of black Goshiki, but the interesting head pattern and clean white fins nicely balance the red and black body. Remember, the black areas are those in which we would usually expect to see a reticulated grey pattern over white skin on a traditional Goshiki. This line has just gone one step further, following the initial step of producing Goshiki with no reticulated pattern over hi (red). The result? A koi very much like a Hi Showa as to colour, but with a very unique character!

Lion Queen. Black Goshiki—the New Showa?

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AKA REPORTER22

Constantino Pismiris Koi Society of Western Australia

When we take on a hobby like koi, there are a few things that can make the experience of keeping koi not only a little easier but also more pleasurable.

A good, reliable and most importantly, capable filtration system, a well designed good functioning pond along with good koi keeping/husbandry all equate to a good start in the way of a healthy pond system for your koi collection and hobby in general.

The above mentioned all contribute towards good water quality and for all koi/fish keepers, as we know, water quality is I think, the most important factor in keeping your pond system and koi in the best condition possible health wise, koi that are active and pleasing to the eye because they’re developing and growing how the should and not under stress due to below average or very poor conditions.

We know that koi are quite hardy and can tolerate quite average conditions but over time

and all of a sudden you will start to notice, and you will…make no mistake about it, see them stressing and start to be less active and not interested even in food, keep a white skinned fish in your pond for early signs of stress, it will get thin red veins on it and that should be your first alarm bells to possibly an issue with your pond or fish.

Some other aquatic life can tolerate poor water quality but koi need the best water possible to stay in the best condition and develop the best they can absolutely.

The best way is to keep vigilant, watch and study your koi, especially when close up and look for any signs of stress or abnormal behavior.

Always stay on top of your filter and pond maintenance, water changes and husbandry as a whole, this way you get to any problems early on rather than when it can become a long struggle to get things right again, little effort regularly is always better than lots of effort now and then.

Something we can do to help our koi is to add some minerals to the water that may be low or missing all together.

Clay and water quality

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The minerals that are in the water naturally are absorbed through plants, our koi and don’t forget the beneficial bacteria in your filtration system.

Some of us may have a well/bore as our water source and this water may have more minerals in it, but for most of us we have mains water as our water source from the local Water Corporation, basically tap water.

Nothing wrong with mains water, just that it may be lacking the right levels of minerals that benefit our koi, this water gets treated so it’s safe to drink and so on so some minerals may be reduced due to treatment and therefore our koi not really gaining the full benefit from the water they’re in.

So as an added measure we can do water changes and top ups regularly to refresh the water in the pond and to help dilute any ammonia, nitrite or nitrates and so on to help keep water quality at it’s peak.

Another thing we can do is add clay, yes clay, clay is suitable for aquaculture, agriculture and so on.

Adding clay puts back minerals into the water that the water is lacking, between the use of clay and water changes introducing fresh water with what natural minerals there’s in it, we can help our koi develop better health and overall better healthy ,vibrant and great looking koi.

Look at the great koi masters in Japan, they raise koi from fry to adults in large mud ponds and I’m more than happy to be corrected here, they add new clay to the mud pond bottoms every year to ensure the highest quality minerals in the mud pond to get the best out of their mud ponds and in turn the best results possible for their koi babies, a great feat you can just imagine.

Clay to a point can act as a flocculent and can help a little with water clarity. Clay can also help with water quality as it’s said that clay helps remove toxins from the water also.

Dissolve some clay into a container like a watering can or even a bucket and pour it around the pond, the pond will go murky so if you want to enjoy viewing your koi over the weekend when you’re home do it on Monday instead.

Initially natural instinct kicks in and the koi huddle together freaking out a little over this ‘new’ thing in the water but once they swim through it they’re fine.

Clay is said to improve your koi’s appetite, for those of you that are into wildlife

documentaries you may remember one on the Macaw parrots of South America, every so often they migrate to the clay cliff faces and eat the clay, it’s said that they do it so as to absorb/combat toxins and help with digestion, remember earlier we mentioned that clay can help with removing toxins in the water and that clay can help with our koi’s appetite…maybe via better digestion? Quite possible.

Speaking of digestion, you can mix a little clay into your koi food patties you may make for your fry, not too much just a sprinkle in each pattie.

Clay in their food can help with digestion and toxins, it is also said this is good in the sense of better digestion decreasing waste which is less pressure on your filtration system.

The benefits of clay use in the pond are exactly that-beneficial, although some people say it’s an expensive exercise and have told me not to waste my money, I think a little over $22 Aus dollars for a 10kg bag Bentonite clay is great value and worth the effort.

So in summary:• Clay can help with removing toxins,• Clay can help improve the digestive system,• Clay can help improve water quality and

clarity,• Clay can help with bacteria in the filter,• Clay can improve skin quality, making it

vibrant and healthy looking,• Clay can help your koi’s appetite,• Clay can also help your water plants in the

way of adding it when potting your water plants to add minerals that may be lacking in the soil/potting mix.

Give it a few weeks of using clay to notice some change.

As always, happy to be corrected or have added info on this topic as Koi Nuts is and always will be, all about learning more about this fantastic and unique hobby. ■

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February 2016 Table Show Results

Open 1st 2nd Kohaku Brad Bradley Kawarimono Brad BradleyKinginrin A Jimmy Tran Judges Graham FameliJudge’s Choice Kohaku—Brad Bradley

March 2016 Table Show Results

Open 1st 2nd Kohaku Vinh Diep Vinh Diep Kawarimono John Rhodes Metallic Doitsu John Rhodes Judge Kate Andrews ZNA CertifiedJudge’s Choice Kohaku—Vinh Diep

Table Show Results

Judge’s Choice for February: Kohaku—Bradley Bradley.

REMINDER

Nichirin MagazineAll members that wish to renew their subscription ($100) to the Japanese koi magazine Nichirin should contact Bryce Hough on 02 9755 2850 or 0408 882 025.

Supplies available to AKA members

Contact Ron and Max Farrugia for all supplies listed on (02) 9533 2546 or 0403 029 532Hours: Mon to Fri 8.00 am - 8.00 pm Sat and Sun 8.00 am - 11.00 am

FOOD Flake-Tropical 1 kg $35.00Flake 200 mg $8.00Fry Food 1 kg $20.00AKA Growth Food 5 kg $35.00No.1 High Protein Crumble 1kg $19.00No.2 High Protein Crumble 1kg $19.00No.3 High Protein Crumble 1kg $19.00 Baby Koi Pellets 1kg $8.00Pond Sticks 4 kg $35.00AKA Premium Growth Food 5 kg $45.00AKA Growth Food (small pellet) 5kg $35 Orca Quick Grow medium koi food 10 kg $80.00

MEDICINEMalachite Green 20 gms $25.00Methylene Blue 18 gms $25.00

Clean Fish CF 50 1litre $40.00Condy’s Crystals 200 gms $25.00Oil of Cloves 100 ml $25.00

AIRAir Stones small $1.00Air Stones 50 mm $6.00Air Tube per metre $2.00Green plastic air tube Roll $50.00

PUMPSXF 171 Davey Pump P.O.A.HIBLOW 20 litre/hour $215.00HIBLOW 40 litre/hour $230.00HIBLOW 60 litre/hour $240.00HIBLOW 80 litre/hour $270.00Aquarium Air Pump $25.00

SUBMERSIBLESKing 3 2400 litres/hour $120.00King 4 4800 litres/hour $160.00King 5 6500 litres/hour $180.00King 6 8000 litres/hour $220.00

WATERSodium Thiosulphate 1 kg $15.00Extra Water Purifier 1 Litre $20.00Extra Water Purifier 20 Litres $210.00

MISCELLANEOUSLarge Plastic Bags $1.50Carbonate hardness raising 2 kg $6.00Clear Pond 200 mg $30.00Slurpy Pump — fitted for use $180.00Algae Fix 500 ml $25.00Clear plastic Table Show tanks $20.00“Virkon S” broad spectrum disinfectant 250g $25.00

NETS6” Nets $3.0010” Nets $5.00

TEST KITSAmmonia Test Kit $20.00pH Test Kit $20.00Carbon Hardness Test Kit $20.00

Please Note: Members’ orders for supplies for delivery at the monthly meetings are to be in the Tuesday prior to the meeting.

Members ordering supplies for postal delivery should send money order or cheque payable to Australian Koi Association to 32 Hardy Ave, Riverwood 2210. Please ensure cost of return postage is included.