The Zn-rich alloys possess stronger icosahedral-forming ability. When the percentage of Mg atoms is about 60% in a Zn-centred icosahedra, it is most close to the densest one. The forming ability of GE9IS-ICOs is closely related to the number difference of icosahedra in MgxZn(100-x) alloys. It demonstrates the growth pathway of string-like icosahedra by attaching a 6-atom pentagonal pyramid.