Description

The common carp can be easily identified by several features. First, there are two barbels on each side of the mouth. No other species that closely resembles the carp has these barbels. Second, the dorsal and anal fins have spines at the front edge of the fins that are serrated. Most carp are bronze-gold to golden yellow on the sides and yellowish white on the belly. Partially scaled or scaleless individuals are frequently caught by fishermen: these are known as "half-scaled," "mirror" or "leather" carp. Also brightly colored common carp are known as "koi" and are often sold as ornamental fish for garden ponds. Common carp differ from goldfish by having the two sets of barbels and by having a dark spot at the base of each scale.

Habitat and Habits

Carp prefer warm lakes, streams, ponds and sloughs with a lot of organic matter. They do not multiply readily in clear, cold water. They are tolerant of very poor water quality. They root around on the bottom while feeding often uprooting vegetation and making the water very turbid (murky).

Reproduction and Care of the Young

Spawning begins in late April and continues into June. Large females lay between 100,000 and 500,000 eggs in vegetation with water depths between one and four feet. Young carp remain in these vegetated areas until they are three to four inches in length and eat primarily small crustaceans.

Quick Facts

• Fish Family: Cyprinidae (Minnows and Carps)


• Other Names:Mirror carp, leather carp, koi


• Ohio Status: Introduced


• Adult Size: Typically 15-30 inches, can reach over 40 inches. Usually weighs 5-10 pounds, can reach 50-60 pounds.


• Typical Foods: Will eat a wide variety of items including, insect larvae, crustaceans, mollusks, some aquatic plants, fish eggs, and even small fish.