Common Carp
Description
To 30"; 60 lbs. Robust moderately compressed; black dark olive, sides
lighter, yellowish below; fins dusky-olive. 2 pairs of barbels on upper
lip. Dorsal fin long, has 1 stout, serrate spine, 17-21 rays; anal
fin with similar spine, 5-6 rays. Lateral line completes, 32-39 scales.
Habitat
Steams, lakes, ponds,
sloughs, and reservoirs in turbid or clear water over mud or silt with
aquatic vegetation; more common in warm waters.
Similar Species
Goldfish lacks barbels; has larger scales
Comments
Carp were introduced into the United States during the
late 1880's by the United States Fish Commission as a food fish. They
proved detrimental to native fish populations and have never become
as popular as game and food fishes in North America as they are in Europe.
Carp will take a variety of bait, such as dough balls, cheese, corn,and
worms, and fight when hooked.
Other
Other