Kumonryu

Kumonryu, which fist appeared in the 1980’s, is the most popular of all black Koi derivatives in Kawarimono. The name means "dragon fish" and is applied to these Koi because their markings are reminiscent of the coiled bodies of these mythical beasts as depicted in Oriental paintings.

Kumonryu are always Doitsu, sharpening the contrast between the white and black on the body. Patterning can be highly variable; the best examples show large, wavy-edged blocks of white along the flanks and the top of the body. However, these fish are effectively Doitsu Matsukawabake, so their patterning can change seasonally depending on lineage and water temperature and quality.