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Matsukawabake

SHOP OUR SELECTION OF MATSUKAWABAKE KOI FISH ONLINE – STRIKING CONTRAST AND EVER-CHANGING BEAUTY

Shop Our Selection of Matsukawabake Koi Fish Online

Breeders Specializing in Matsukawabake Koi Fish:

Kaneko

Ikarashi Kazuto

Aokiya

Matsukawabake koi are exquisite and spellbinding with their striking color contrast, bold, white skin, and black sumi markings. The best part is that unlike other kinds of koi, they have the ability to change color. Depending on water temperature, stress, or seasonal changes, their sumo patterns can shift or fade dramatically. The name “Matsukawabake” means “pine tree changing color,” a name that is fitting for a koi that is entirely unique.

Their scaleless skin enhances their pattern clarity, making each sumi marking appear sharper and more defined. This makes Matsukawabake particularly impressive in sunlight or clear water, where the contrast truly pops. Because their pattern evolves over time, they remain a point of visual interest year after year, giving pond keepers a koi that continues to surprise and delight.

At Fitz’s Fish Ponds, we offer Matsukawabake koi sourced from elite breeders such as Kaneko, Ikarashi Kazuto, and Aokiya. These breeders are known for cultivating koi with clean, white bodies, strong sumi expression, and stable conformation. Whether you’re looking for a koi that stands out in sharp contrast or evolves with the seasons, our Matsukawabake collection adds mystery and movement to your pond. Shop our collection now!

MATSUKAWABAKE KOI FISH FAQS: SIZE, CARE, FEEDING, AND BUYING GUIDE

What is a Matsukawabake koi? A dynamic Doitsu koi explained.

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Matsukawabake is a black-and-white, mostly scaleless, koi variety known for its changing sumi (black) patterns. Every koi has its own unique appearance and their black scaleless markings may either darken or lighten depending on the water environment.

Why do Matsukawabake koi change color?

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Their sumi is highly responsive to environmental factors. Seasonal shifts, water quality, and temperature can all cause changes in the visibility or depth of the black patterns, making them a koi that’s always evolving.

How large do Matsukawabake koi get?

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They typically grow to 26–32 inches in healthy pond conditions. Their Doitsu body type helps emphasize their color and pattern as they mature.

Are Matsukawabake koi suitable for beginners?

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These fish are resilient and friendly, and are ideal for koi keepers of all experience levels. You’ll love the charm and uniqueness this koi variety adds to your pond.

Do Matsukawabake koi get along with other koi varieties?

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Absolutely. Matsukawabake are peaceful and mix well in community ponds, offering bold contrast alongside other koi types.

What should I feed my Matsukawabake koi?

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Matsukawake thrive on a simple diet of high-quality koi fish pellets. An occasional bloodworm and spirulina treat can help their shimmer look even brighter.

How do I care for Matsukawabake koi during winter?

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You will want to ensure ample depth and good aeration for your pond, along with adding a de-icer or heater if the region is colder.

Can Matsukawabake koi be kept in small ponds?

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They’ll need more room as they grow. A medium to large pond is ideal for their development and for appreciating their evolving patterns.

Are Matsukawabake koi rare? What makes them special?

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They are considered rare due to their color-changing ability and Doitsu skin, which makes their patterns crisp and easy to observe. Their uniqueness comes from their unpredictability and visual transformation.

Why should I buy Matsukawabake koi from Fitz’s Fish Ponds?

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We work directly with top breeders like Kaneko, Ikarashi Kazuto, and Aokiya to source Matsukawabake koi with strong sumi potential, balanced bodies, and clear white skin. Each fish is chosen for uniqueness, and long-term visual appeal.
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