[MikeM]

Since reading the Asagi series in Koi-Bito issue 8, i have been a bit fixated on the scales of koi along the dorsal ridge from the back of the head to the dorsal fin. [Yes, I know, I need to get a life.] There is extraordinary variability. For example, compare the central row of scales on the Asagi in photo #8 on page 32 with the central row of the reverse Asagi in photo #6 on page 36. The first has few scales emerging, creating almost an empty space along the dorsal ridge. The latter has full scales along the ridge, but the scales are not perfectly even .. they become a little jumbled compared to the even rows of scales on the rest of the koi's body. Compare these again to the two Asagi on page 26, the 70bu and 75bu Asagi champs at the 2003 Rinyukai All-Japan show. The 75bu winning Asagi has near perfect alignment and very similar sizing of the scales on the dorsal ridge. The 70bu champ begins with an even alignment at the back of the head, but the scales become jumbled near the dorsal fin.

The dorsal scales on all varieties vary greatly, but it is most noticeable on those varieties whose special qualities center on scalation. The Kujaku on page 13 of issue 8 are great examples. The 80bu has no scales along the dorsal ridge, creating a bright shine on bare metallic skin. The 70bu pictured next to it has partially emerged scales along the ridge, evenly aligned. The baby 25 bu below it has some scales emerging unevenly (at that point in its development); while the 50bu next to it is missing nearly 3 dorsal rows, making a wide reflective area.

Ooops. Work calls. I'll be back.