[MikeM]

An article in the latest electronic Rinko has me thinking once more about the different body shapes to be found among koi and the concept of "conformation". The term "conformation" encompasses several ideas, and is frequently discussed in broad terms. As in so much of koi appreciation, specifics are difficult to express. Implicit in "conformation" is the idea that a koi should possess all of its body parts. No fin rays should be missing, for example. "Conformation" also includes the idea that no body part be malformed. A bent dorsal fin is not desirable. There is also the idea of symetry. The paired fins should be of equal size; the eyes should be evenly set. The concept of "conformation" also includes the idea that there should proper proportions in the size of the various body parts in relation to one another. From this latter sense of the concept comes the notion that there is an ideal body shape. But is there a single ideal body shape? Or, are there multiple ideal shapes, and are there certain shapes best suited to particular varieties and different shapes ideal for another variety?

There are innumerable body shapes to be found among koi. In a thread on another board several weeks ago, JR pointed out that Nishikigoi have been developed from the crossing of several different strains of the common carp. We know that nishikigoi were developed from carp raised for food. Japanese texts highlight that well after irogoi (colored carp) were developed, the genes of local area magoi and magoi derivatives were introduced into the gene pool that became nishikigoi. The importation of the scaleless German carp, with its exaggerated bulk, compressed body and high dorsal ridge, added to the genetic mix. Today's koi carry this diverse genetic mix, and it is expressed in numerous culls every season. There is a multi-branched continuum of body shapes, each blurring into another. Some are unacceptable by the standards of the day, but there are several that are "acceptable" and seen everyday.

Within the range of "acceptable" shapes, I categorize four as primary among the koi we keep. First is the torpedo shape seen in contemporary Kohaku. Second is the broad-chested/large head of older lines of Showa. Third is the "big all over" shape of Chagoi, with thickened muscle and tissue rounding the area between the spine and lateral line. Fourth is the modern magoi-influenced body shape seen in Matsunosuke bloodline koi. A person may categorize intermediates between these as additional types, but I think these four serve my present purpose.

[To be continued. Dinner calls.]