SHOP OUR SELECTION OF TANCHO SHOWA KOI FISH ONLINE – A POWERFUL RED CREST ON A BOLD BLACK AND WHITE CANVAS
Breeders Specializing in Tancho Showa Koi Fish:
Maruhiro
Dainichi
Marudo
Marusei
Marusada
Tancho Showa koi highlight one of the boldest markings that accentuate Showa patterns. The contrast between colors is bold and jet-black which is sure to grab anyone’s attention. These koi feature a prominent red circle on the head, the signature Tancho feature, set against a striking black and white body. The base of the Showa pattern includes deep sumi (black) and clean shiroji (white), making the vibrant red marking on the head even more eye-catching and iconic.
Unlike Tancho Kohaku or Sanke, the Tancho Showa has a much darker and more powerful aesthetic. The black patterns may appear on the face, fins, or across the body but never break into the Tancho crest, which must remain undisturbed and clearly defined. This contrast creates a koi with strong energy and bold movement, often viewed as a symbol of strength and perseverance in koi symbolism.
At Fitz’s Fish Ponds, we proudly offer Tancho Showa koi hand-selected from elite breeders such as Maruhiro, Dainichi, Marudo, Marusei, and Marusada. These breeders are known for developing koi with excellent body structure, crisp shiroji, jet-black sumi, and perfectly positioned hi (red) markings. If you’re looking for a koi that commands attention while preserving balance and tradition, the Tancho Showa is an unmatched addition to any pond.
TANCHO SHOWA KOI FISH FAQS: SIZE, CARE, FEEDING, AND BUYING GUIDE
What is a Tancho Showa koi? It’s red marking and Showa base explained.
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A Tancho Showa is a koi with a single red circle on the head and a black-and-white Showa pattern on the body. The red mark must be unbroken and centered, while black (sumi) and white (shiroji) appear throughout the rest of the body.
What makes Tancho Showa koi so unique? The harmony of contrast and power.
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They blend the elegance of a perfect red crest with the bold intensity of Showa's black and white body patterns. The red spot commands focus, while the sumi and shiroji bring energy and strength to the overall presentation.
How large do Tancho Showa koi grow?
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Tancho Showa can grow to 30–36 inches with proper nutrition and space. They have thick, muscular bodies and are among the more robust koi varieties.
Are Tancho Showa koi good for beginner koi keepers?
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Yes, these koi are friendly and resilient. They are relatively simple to raise and mix well with other koi varieties.
Do Tancho Showa koi get along with other koi types?
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Absolutely. They’re calm, social fish that do well in community ponds, offering striking contrast when housed with lighter or more subtly patterned koi.
Do Tancho Showa koi get along with other koi types?
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Absolutely. They’re calm, social fish that do well in community ponds, offering striking contrast when housed with lighter or more subtly patterned koi.
What is the best food for Tancho Showa koi?
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Feed a high-quality pellet formulated for color and growth. Supplements like krill or spirulina can help deepen sumi and enhance the vivid red head marking.
How do I care for Tancho Showa koi during winter?
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During the winter, Tancho Showa koi became dormant. Ensure timely pond maintenance, consistent oxygen flow, and use a de-icer or pond heater to maintain temperature.
Can Tancho Showa koi live in a small pond?
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They require space to grow and develop their patterns fully. A medium to large pond is best to support their size and give them room to swim freely.
Are Tancho Showa koi rare? Why are they so desirable?
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Yes, especially high-quality specimens with crisp red crests and clean Showa patterning. Finding a koi where the Tancho marking is undisturbed by sumi is rare, making them highly sought after, especially from breeders like Dainichi and Marusada.
Why should I buy Tancho Showa koi from Fitz’s Fish Ponds?
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We source from Japan’s most respected breeders including Marudo, Sakai, and Maruhiro. Every Tancho Showa is hand-selected for its clean head marking, deep black body pattern, and overall balance, delivering power and grace in every swim.
