What is a Kohaku pattern?

Kohaku is the most classic koi pattern — bold red (hi) markings over a clean white base. In the Japanese koi world, Kohaku is considered the king of patterns for its elegant simplicity. This swordtail variety replicates the same aesthetic in a tropical aquarium fish.

Will the pattern look exactly like the photo?

No — like true koi, every Koi Kohaku Swordtail has a unique pattern. The distribution of red and white varies between individuals. You may receive fish with large bold patches, scattered markings, or a balanced mix. This variation is part of the appeal.

Will the koi pattern breed true?

The koi pattern is genetically influenced but variable. Breeding two Kohaku swordtails will produce offspring with red and white markings, but the exact distribution will vary — just as with real koi breeding. This makes each generation interesting and unique.

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Xiphophorus hellerii

Koi Kohaku Swordtail – Xiphophorus Hellerii

Name: Koi Kohaku Swordtail – Xiphophorus Hellerii
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: f9fce59c-f2d3-47a2-b5ea-02e4e2a1b04b
Price: 6.78 GBP
Availability: InStock

Beginner Friendly

Peaceful

£6.78In Stock

Koi Kohaku Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) – a striking livebearer with bold red and white markings inspired by the Japanese Kohaku koi pattern. Each fish has a unique distribution of red (hi) patches over a clean white base, creating a miniature koi effect in the tropical aquarium.

Community FishKoi KohakuKoi PatternLivebearerSwordtail

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Xiphophorus hellerii

Adult Size

12 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Care Level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Temperature

22–28°C

pH Range

7–8.5

Hardness

10–25 dGH

Minimum Tank

60L

Diet

Flakes, pellets, frozen foods, algae, vegetable matter

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Healthy, vibrant fish from trusted suppliers

Expert Care

Detailed care guides and support

Live Arrival Guarantee

Your fish arrives healthy or we'll replace it

Acclimated

Properly quarantined and ready for your tank

Quick Care Guide

Temperature

22–28°C

pH Range

7–8.5

Minimum Tank

60L

Adult Size

12 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Care Level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Flakes, pellets, frozen foods, algae, vegetable matter

Water Hardness

10–25 dGH

Tank Region

Middle

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

22–28°C

22°CIdeal Range28°C

pH Level

7–8.5

7Ideal Range8.5

Water Hardness

10–25 dGH

10 dGHIdeal Range25 dGH

Why Choose This Fish?

The Koi Kohaku Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) brings the beauty of Japanese koi patterning to the tropical aquarium. The Kohaku pattern — bold red (hi) patches over a clean white base — is the most prized pattern in the koi world, and this swordtail variety captures that aesthetic in miniature. Each fish has a unique distribution of red and white, making every individual distinct.

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name	Xiphophorus hellerii
Adult Size	10–12 cm
Temperature	22–28 °C
pH Range	7.0–8.5
Hardness	10–25 dGH
Minimum Tank	60 litres
Diet	Flakes, pellets, frozen foods, algae, vegetable matter
Temperament	Peaceful
Lifespan	3–5 years
Care Level	Easy

Kohaku – The King of Koi Patterns

In the Japanese koi world, Kohaku is considered the most important and classic pattern — simple yet refined, featuring red markings over a pure white body. This swordtail variety replicates that aesthetic beautifully. The contrast between the vivid red and clean white is enhanced as the fish matures, with colours becoming more defined and intense.

Every Fish Is Unique

Like true koi, the red and white distribution varies between individuals. Some fish may show large, bold red patches, while others display a more scattered or balanced pattern. This natural variation makes each fish one-of-a-kind and creates an interesting group where every individual is different.

Tank Mates

Peaceful with all community fish. Compatible with other swordtails, platies, mollies, tetras, and corydoras. For a larger group, see our Koi Kohaku Swordtails 10 Pack. Also browse Green Wagtail Swordtails and Assorted Swordtails.