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Many people may think of koi as “just fish,” but koi enthusiasts love their pets quite deeply, like members of the family. This means it’s important for some people to pick the perfect name for their fish.
Koi can have distinctive personalities, and each also has a unique appearance. From their scales and colors to their shape and size, every koi is an individual, so you want to choose the name that suits your fish the best.
How to Name Your Koi Fish Based on Color
You can choose a color-based name for your koi anywhere on the spectrum from simple to unique. Most people know the basic colors, but any words associated with the colors of koi fish can be used.
Modern koi originated in Japan in the 1800s, while their carp family members have been bred domestically in China since the 4th century. Therefore, there are plenty of name options from these countries that are associated with koi and carp.
The 150 Majestic Koi Fish Names
Basic Koi Colors
You can keep things simple and name your fish directly after a color, either the one that matches their scales or just a color that they remind you of!

Fun Color Names for Koi
Koi can be so many colors, so you might want to reflect that variance in their name!
These names are actual varieties of koi, which you may find useful if you have multiple koi types and want to keep them all straight. It’s believed that rice farmers in Japan first domesticated the fish that we now know as koi, so you might find it fitting to pick a Japanese name for your fish. In some parts of the world, koi are more than just pretty fish. They are part of legends and folklore and symbolize various concepts, usually positive ones like good fortune or hope. There is no shortage of name options for your koi, even if you’re only looking for a name related to the beautiful colors and appearance of your fish. Some of these names are the official names of certain koi varieties, while others are simply fun and interesting descriptors. Now all that’s left is for you to pick the perfect moniker for your lovely fish. You Might Also Like: Featured Image Credit: Vital Safo, Shutterstock
Variety and Appearance Names for Koi With Meanings
Japanese Names for Koi
Words Associated With Specific Koi Colors
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