1. Body Conformation
The thick body shape of female Koi is preferred. Males just don't genetically carry the body mass
for competition as a rule. The shape and size of the fins should be in proportion to the body and match
the opposite side. The head shape should not be too short, long or bend to one side. The Koi when viewed
from above should be even on both sides and not have one side obviously thicker than the other. In a
nutshell, a the longest and most filled out fish rules the show given that items 2, 3 and 4 are met
well.
2. Skin Colorations
Skin quality and deep vibrant color add up to a term called "finish" or how all of the colors add
up to complete the fish. There should be a healthy sheen to the skin.
3. Patterns
The patterns of color should have defined edges and the color is best when it is a consistent hue and
does not "bleed" or diffuse at the edge of the scales into other colors. Crisp, sharp color edges are
most preferred. Patterns should be balanced and not front, tail or side heavy. The pattern must also
be proportional. e.g. not have a small pattern on a huge body or a huge pattern on a small body.
4. Quality, Artistic and Special Considerations
A uniqueness, usually of the head pattern, that makes a Koi different from the norm.
