ASAGI
General
Description
'Asagi'
is the term applied to a fully reticulated koi that exhibits a
blue color above its lateral line, and accented by red
markings on its underside. Reticulation
refers to scales that form a net-like appearance. Thus, an
asagi exhibits a bluish net pattern all over the top portion
of its body. This reticulation is created by the asagi's blue
scales which are surrounded by white edges.
Appreciation
Criteria
Color
The Asagi's body must be blue in color above the lateral line.
The blue color must be of even shade and hue within a single
koi, although it may vary from one koi to another.
Depending on the bloodline of the koi, the blue color may be
dark (almost blue-gray) or light (very light blue) in
appearance. Many hobbyists prefer the lighter shade of
blue.
Aside from the blue color of the asagi above its lateral line,
it must have red coloration on the underside of the its body,
just below the lateral line. This red color may also
appear on all fins, the gill covers, and mouth.
Pattern
The most important aspect of judging asagi koi is the quality
of the reticulation over its blue body. The reticulation
effect comes from the lighter color of the edge of each blue
scale. If the scales are lined up in straight rows, they
exhibit a perfect netting effect that looks very beautiful.
Asagi koi with perfect reticulation are therefore desirable,
while those with uneven or interrupted reticulation are held
in much lower esteem.
The red colorations of an asagi must provide a balanced accent
to the total package of the koi. A clean and unblemished
head is also a sought-after trait of an asagi.
Body
Please see separate article on
The Ideal Koi Body.
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