Doitsu Showa

The Doitsu Showa is a powerful and visually aggressive variety that combines the complex tri-color pattern of the Showa Sanshoku with the sleek, scaleless skin of the Doitsu lineage. A traditional Showa is characterized by its black (Sumi) base, overlaid with red (Beni) and white (Shiroji) markings. In the Doitsu version, the absence of scales allows these three colors to interact in a way that is remarkably bold and high-contrast. The Sumi on a Doitsu Showa often appears particularly deep and "inky," with a lacquer-like sheen that is difficult to achieve on scaled fish. This variety is known for its "wrap-around" patterns, where the black markings flow from the belly up toward the back, often creating a dramatic "menware" (black dividing the face) across the head. The interplay of the three colors on the smooth, leather-like skin creates a look that is often compared to a piece of modern abstract art or traditional Japanese calligraphy. When evaluating a Doitsu Showa, balance is key. The black, red, and white should be distributed evenly across the body, and the "kiwa" (edges of the pattern) should be razor-sharp. Because they are Doitsu, any stray scales (known as "muda-goke") along the sides can be a significant demerit in competition; the fish should ideally be completely smooth or have a perfect, symmetrical row of mirror scales along the dorsal fin. Breeders like Shinoda have become famous for their Doitsu Showa, producing fish with massive bodies and incredibly thick, vibrant colors. These fish are often quite hardy, though their complex patterns can be sensitive to water chemistry—hard water often encourages the black to develop more strongly, while soft water may favor the red. The Doitsu Showa is a favorite for keepers who want a fish with a "tough" and commanding presence. It is a dynamic variety that seems to change its look as it glides through the water, with the bold colors popping against the dark depths of a pond.