Bekko

Bekko is a show class represented by three varieties: the Shiro Bekko, the Aka Bekko, and the Ki Bekko. Each variety has a different underlying base color with a black (sumi) spot pattern ( Koi Buying (part 4) ). Thus, the Shiro Bekko is a non-metallic white fish, the Aka Bekko has a non-metallic red base color, and the Ki Bekko has a non-metallic yellow base color. Only these three varieties fall under the Bekko show class. Later, Hikari (metallic), GinRin (shiny scales), and Doitsu (low-scale) varieties also emerged, but these fall under different show classes.

Bekko is one of the oldest varieties in the now extensive range of over 150 different koi varieties. The first Bekko was a Ki Bekko, created in the mid-19th century by crossing a Magoi (an ancient carp intended for consumption) with a Higoi (a red-headed koi). The Shiro Bekko, the most popular of the three, emerged much later. By crossing the Shiro Bekko even later with a Kohaku, the Sanke was created around 1900. After all, if you remove the red from a Sanke, you end up with a Shiro Bekko.

Bekko can be translated as turtle, referring to the sumi pattern on the fish, which, with a little imagination, gives it a somewhat turtle-like appearance. In Japan, a turtle symbolizes 10,000 years of good fortune and health (well, what good is only 100 years of good fortune and health?).

Although the Bekko has been around for over 150 years, the variety has fallen into disrepute in recent decades. With the rise of Utsuri (Shiro Utsuri, Hi Utsuri, and Ki Utsuri), which represent the same colors but have a bolder sumi pattern, the Bekko has faded somewhat into the background. Shiro Bekko is still bred seriously in Japan, but Aka Bekko and Ki Bekko are usually obtained as "bycatch" from bulk breeders. Nevertheless, a good specimen can be a valuable addition to your pond.