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Dick:
A little off-subject, but maybe these koi are suitable for a lesson on Sumi.... When we see a tricolor koi, whether Sanke or Showa, at tosai, it may show the beginnings of the Sumi it will possess as an adult, or may only be showing the 'false sumi' or 'baby sumi' that fades in time. I often find myself wondering if the Sumi on a particular tosai in a dealer's vat is "coming or going". Even with nisai the "baby sumi" can give a false impression of what the adult will be like. Much heartbreak for the koikeeper getting young fish comes from mis-judging how the Sumi will behave.... and "baby sumi" on a Showa or Sanke can be eye-catching .... or cover-up the strong points of the fish.
I think it is very difficult to make a reliable guess without knowing the characteristics of the particular breeder's fish. But, perhaps you have some ideas that could help increase the percentage of guessing right?
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