Kujaku Koi Care Guide
The Kujaku koi (Cyprinus carpio) is a highly striking koi variety popular in the UK. Known for its metallic sheen and net-like reticulated pattern over a bright base colour, it combines beauty and contrast in a way few koi can match.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Kujaku koi care, including pond size, water conditions, feeding, compatibility, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Kujaku Koi
Kujaku koi are a metallic variety featuring a bright base colour (often white, yellow, or orange) overlaid with a dark reticulated pattern. They are part of the Hikari Moyo group and are prized for their reflective scales and intricate patterning.
Their appearance can change as they mature, especially in terms of contrast and sheen.
Cyprinus carpio
60-90 cm (can grow larger in ideal conditions)
Japan
1,000L+ (larger strongly recommended)
20-30+ years
Peaceful, social
4-28°C (coldwater species)
Omnivore (koi pellets, vegetables, natural pond foods)
6.5-8.0
£40-£300+ depending on size and quality
How Many Kujaku Koi Should You Keep?
Kujaku koi are social fish and should be kept with other koi.
- Keep at least 2-3 koi
- Stocking depends on pond size and filtration
- Allow plenty of space per fish
Overstocking can lead to:
- Poor water quality
- Stunted growth
- Increased disease risk
As with all koi, long-term planning is essential.
Ideal Pond Conditions for Kujaku Koi
Providing the right pond environment is key to maintaining both health and colour quality.
- Pond Size: Larger ponds (2,000L+) are strongly recommended
- Depth: At least 1-1.5 metres
- Filtration: Strong mechanical and biological filtration is essential
- Water Conditions: Clean, stable, well-oxygenated water
- Plants & Features: Marginal plants and shaded areas can help reduce stress
- Aeration: Air pumps or waterfalls improve oxygen levels
Clean water helps maintain their metallic sheen and clear patterning.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Kujaku koi are peaceful and mix well with other pond fish.
- Good Tankmates: other koi varieties, goldfish, and peaceful coldwater species
- Avoid: very small fish that may be outcompeted for food
They are non-aggressive but can be competitive feeders.
Are Kujaku Koi Easy to Care For?
Kujaku koi are moderately easy to care for with the right pond setup.
They require:
- Large, well-filtered ponds
- Stable water conditions
- Regular maintenance
- A high-quality diet
They are hardy, but maintaining their visual quality requires good care.
Kujaku Koi Price in the UK
In the UK, Kujaku koi typically cost between £40-£300+, depending on size, pattern, and quality. High-grade or imported Japanese specimens can cost significantly more.
Prices vary depending on:
- Strength of metallic sheen
- Quality of reticulation pattern
- Colour clarity and contrast
- Size and breeder
They are considered a premium koi variety.
Where to Buy Kujaku Koi in the UK
Kujaku koi are available from specialist koi dealers and breeders across the UK.
Sourcing koi locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to inspect pattern and sheen
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect pond keepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Kujaku Koi?
Yes - Kujaku koi are often sold or rehomed by hobbyists and breeders.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of transport
- Connects you with knowledgeable buyers
TankMate UK allows you to list koi quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Kujaku Koi
Kujaku koi are omnivorous and require a balanced diet.
Key Tips:
- Feed high-quality koi pellets as a staple
- Supplement with vegetables such as lettuce and peas
- Adjust feeding based on water temperature
- Avoid overfeeding
A quality diet helps maintain colour vibrancy and metallic sheen.
Common Problems with Kujaku Koi
Loss of metallic sheen or dull colour, often caused by:
- Poor water quality
- Low-quality diet
Poor water quality, linked to:
- Overstocking
- Overfeeding
- Inadequate filtration
Slow growth or weak condition, caused by:
- Insufficient pond size
- Poor nutrition
Why Kujaku Koi Are So Popular
- Beautiful metallic sheen
- Unique net-like (reticulated) pattern
- High contrast and visual impact
- Rare and highly prized
- Adds brightness to koi collections
When kept correctly, Kujaku koi are a dazzling and eye-catching addition to any pond.
Frequently Asked Questions
A metallic koi with a reticulated pattern over a bright base colour.
Yes, their contrast and sheen can develop with age and water conditions.
They are less common than basic varieties and often considered premium fish.
At least 1,000 litres, though much larger ponds are strongly recommended.
Looking to Buy or Sell Kujaku Koi Locally?
TankMate UK connects pond keepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're stocking your pond or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of transport