Hanako, also known as the "flower girl," was a truly remarkable koi fish that lived an astonishing 226 years. In 1966, Professor M...
Hanako, also known as the "flower girl," was a truly remarkable koi fish that lived an astonishing 226 years. In 1966, Professor Masayoshi Hiro from Nagoya Women’s University's Laboratory of Animal Science meticulously determined Hanako's age using a method similar to counting tree rings. By examining the rings on Hanako's scales, the professor was able to unveil the secrets of this ancient fish's long life.
The Age-Revealing Technique:
Counting the rings on a fish's scales, much like counting rings on a tree trunk, allows experts to estimate the age of the fish. These rings, visible only under a microscope, reflect the seasonal variations experienced by the fish. A wider ring indicates the summer months, characterized by increased food consumption and accelerated growth. Conversely, a narrower ring suggests the winter season, when the fish's metabolism slows down.
Hanako's Extraordinary Lifespan:
Using this technique, Professor Hiro determined that Hanako was born around 1751 and lived until 1977. This means that Hanako witnessed numerous historical events and lived through significant changes in the world. What makes Hanako's story even more fascinating is that the other koi fish sharing the same pond were also centenarians, surpassing 100 years of age.
The Legacy of Hanako:
Hanako's incredible lifespan serves as a testament to the longevity and resilience of koi fish. These majestic creatures can live for centuries, captivating the imagination of those who encounter them. Hanako's story reminds us of the importance of cherishing and preserving our natural world, as it holds secrets and wonders that continue to surprise and inspire us.
In conclusion, Hanako, the 226-year-old koi fish, has left an indelible mark on history. Through the meticulous work of Professor Hiro, we were able to uncover the secrets of Hanako's long life. This extraordinary fish serves as a symbol of the awe-inspiring wonders that exist in the natural world, reminding us to appreciate and protect the beauty that surrounds us.
At the time of Hanako’s scale examination in 1966, she weighed 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs) and was 70 cm (27.5 inches) long. She is the oldest known documented koi fish ever.
Next to whales, tortoises, and tuataras, koi fish are one of the longest living vertebrae on Earth. According to Fish Laboratory:
It is quite common to witness a koi that is over a century old in Japan. This is one of the reasons why koi fish have gained so much admiration in Japan and the rest of the world as well.
Environmental factors that contribute to a long lifespan are clean water, nutritionally balanced fish feed, and long cold winters. The cold season will slow down the koi’s metabolism drastically. During this period, the fish may eat very little to none.
Two scales from different parts of her body were taken off with tweezers. The individual growth rings on the scales were painstakingly analyzed over a period of two months by professor Masayoshi Hiro of Laboratory of Animal Science, Nagoya Women’s University.
In May 25 1966, Dr. Komei Koshihara made a broadcast to the whole Japanese nation through Nippon Hoso Kyokai Radio Station about the story of Hanako. He explained that the koi was passed down from his grandmother on his maternal side, who had inherited the fish from “olden times.” Dr. Koshihara described Hanako as his dearest friend.
