It is typically said that male koi finish young, and fade early in their life spans. In weighing whether to choose male or female koi for a pond, this statement is quite material. We know that males do not generally become as large as females and only rarely have the girth necessary to create the bold impression of a mature female.
My personal observation has been that male koi are more graceful and agile swimmers. The bulk carried by females does not allow the same easy movement in water. For most hobbyists, a 26"-28" fish is about all their ponds can handle. These sizes can be obtained by males, although I think 24"-26" is probably the more common experience. I have had some males crap out at 3 or 4 years of age, as has occurred with some females, but I have also had males retain good condition for years. Since my experience is limited, it could be that I have just been lucky to have a few males who kept their attractive qualities. So, I have accepted the general statements as being typical of male koi development and decline, subject to rare exception.
Then along comes the most recent electronic Rinko with an article extolling the virtues of male koi. The article highlights the detraction of yellowish, thicker skin that places males at a disadvantage compared to females; but extolls the virtues of conformation of select males, especially the one that has won Jumbo Male Champion at recent All Japan shows in Tokyo. The article leaves the impression that males do not peak quickly and fade; but, if given optimal conditions often reserved only for females, can maintain a high level of finish for years, while females are likely to fade due to the burden of egg production.
Thoughts on the ability of males to be maintained at a high level compared to females? Is the notion of "fast to finish and fast to fade" inaccurate? .... I am not implying that males are as good a choice as females. (Perhaps for a particular hobbyist in a particular situation, they are.) Rather, I'm wondering if the "fast to fade" knock against males is really accurate, or perhaps it once was, but not so true today?
The picture posted is of a then 5 year old male, now in his 7th growing season, who looks as good or better now. ("Magnifico", my daughter's favorite, shown in the Polyurea Pond thread in a bag held by HenryC.) A yellowed head, etc., but no fading from his "peak", albeit a lower "peak" than a quality fish.
