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What is a Common Carp?

Danielle DeLee
Danielle DeLee

The common carp, known by its scientific name Cyprinus carpio, is a freshwater fish that is found all over the world, but it also is listed on the Vulnerable Species List published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. This seeming incongruity is explained by the double nature of the species: the original, wild variety is found only in rivers that flow to the Black, Caspian and Aral Seas, while the domesticated variety is ubiquitous. The two differ because of the domesticated common carp’s long history of interaction with humans that has shaped it through selective breeding. Both varieties, however, have two barbells at each side of their mouths, and they are grey or bronze-colored. The domesticated carp are shorter, stouter, and faster-growing than their wild counterparts.

Wild common carp populations are decreasing due to river regulation and interbreeding. Channels and dams have disrupted their habitat and interfered with their ability to spawn, which is dependent on the flooding patterns of their native rivers. Also, species that have been introduced to the wild carp’s native rivers have interbred with them. There is no genetic test to identify pure wild carp, so it is impossible to tell how many still exist.

Veterinarian with a puppy
Veterinarian with a puppy

The domesticated common carp is found nearly everywhere. Their hardy constitutions enable them to survive in many different habitats, although they prefer warm, deep water that is still or flows slowly. A soft bottom that supports vegetation is an important component of any common carp habitat. They dig up the bottom and eat whatever they find there, including crustaceans and plants, and when they spawn, their eggs need to cling to vegetation in shallow water in order to survive. Carp are often found in large lakes and lowland rivers.

For humans, the domesticated carp is one of the most widely-used species of fish. Many are stocked for sport fishing in places such as Kingfisher Lake. Some are caught for food, and others are grown by commercial aquaculturists. The domesticated carp has become one of the most commercially-raised fish in the world.

As wild carp disappear, domesticated carp are growing in numbers and importance: in England, one even achieved celebrity status. Her name was Benson, and she was the largest common carp in England—her top recorded weight was 64 pounds (about 29 kg). She lived in Kingfisher Lake, where fish were stocked for catch-and-release angling. Benson was caught 63 times. She died suddenly on July 28, 2009, leaving many disappointed fishermen. After finding evidence of poisonous raw tiger nuts around Kingfisher Lake, her owners speculated that a fisherman using the banned bait may have caused her death.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Common Carp?

The Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a large freshwater fish native to Asia and Eastern Europe. It has been introduced worldwide due to its adaptability and has become an invasive species in many regions. Common Carps are known for their robust, heavy bodies, large scales, and barbels on either side of their mouth.

How can you identify a Common Carp?

Common Carps are identifiable by their large, heavy-set bodies, which can grow up to 47 inches and weigh over 88 pounds. They have a distinctive olive-brown to reddish-brown coloration, large, fully scaled mirror-like bodies, and four barbels—two short ones on the upper lip and two longer at the corners of the mouth.

What is the typical habitat of a Common Carp?

Common Carps thrive in a variety of freshwater habitats, including large rivers, lakes, and ponds. They prefer slow-moving or standing waters with soft, muddy bottoms where they can forage for food. Their adaptability allows them to survive in a range of environmental conditions, including waters with low oxygen levels.

What do Common Carps eat?

Common Carps are omnivorous bottom-feeders, consuming a diet that includes aquatic plants, insects, crustaceans, and small fish. They are known to uproot vegetation while foraging, which can lead to increased water turbidity and habitat disruption, impacting other aquatic species and the overall ecosystem.

Are Common Carps considered invasive?

Yes, Common Carps are considered invasive in many parts of the world, including North America and Australia. Their introduction has often led to ecological disruption as they compete with native species for resources, modify habitats, and contribute to water quality degradation, according to the United States Geological Survey.

What is the significance of Common Carps to humans?

Common Carps have been cultivated for food for over 2,000 years, particularly in Asia and Europe. They are also popular among recreational anglers due to their size and fighting ability when hooked. However, their invasive nature has also necessitated management and control measures to protect native ecosystems.

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    • Veterinarian with a puppy
      Veterinarian with a puppy