A Remarkable Lifespan
In 1966, a koi named Hanako, one of the oldest koi fish ever recorded, was found to have lived an astonishing 226 years. Born in 1751, Hanako lived in the waters of a private pond in Japan. Her incredible lifespan became a subject of fascination and study in the world of fishkeeping.
The Secrets Behind Her Long Life
Hanako’s long life was attributed to the fish’s environment and genetics. She lived in a carefully maintained pond where the conditions were optimal for koi. Hanako’s extraordinary age was verified by counting the growth rings in her scales, similar to how scientists determine the age of trees.
A Scientific Wonder
Hanako’s age became widely known in the 1970s when her life span was officially documented. Her longevity was a rarity, as koi typically live for 25 to 35 years. She passed away in 1977 at the age of 226.
