Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese mud carp (Cirrhinus molitorella) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The mud carp is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from Southeast Asia and southern China. The species has an elongate, silvery body with an inferior mouth with short barbels. It lives from the middle water layers to the bottom of large and medium rivers and enters flooded forests during floods. Grazing the bottom, it feeds on algae, detritus, plant matter and growth. Owing to overfishing and habitat pressure the species is considered near threatened. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese mud carp?
The Chinese mud carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior mouth; bottom-grazing river fish and farmed food fish, sensitive to fishing pressure.
Where does the Chinese mud carp live?
The Chinese mud carp lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia and southern China; large and medium-sized rivers.
How big does the Chinese mud carp get?
The Chinese mud carp grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Chinese mud carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese mud carp is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinese mud carp edible?
Yes, the Chinese mud carp is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cirrhinus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese mud carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese mud carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.