Fin's Fish Guide
The Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Originally from the basins of the Black, Caspian and Aral Seas; wild populations mainly in the Danube basin.
Description
The common carp is a large freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 120 cm. The robust, grey-brown to bronze body has four barbels, a protrusible inferior mouth and a long dorsal fin with spines at the front. Cultivated forms range from fully scaled to almost scaleless, such as the mirror and leather carp. Native to the Black, Caspian and Aral Sea basins, the carp has been introduced worldwide and is locally invasive, because while foraging it stirs up the bottom and clouds the water. It is a crepuscular omnivore eating bottom animals and plant material, and is widely farmed and angled for.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common carp?
The Common carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large cyprinid with four barbels, a protrusible inferior mouth and a long dorsal fin; cultivated forms range from fully scaled to almost scaleless (mirror and leather carp).
Where does the Common carp live?
The Common carp lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Originally from the basins of the Black, Caspian and Aral Seas; wild populations mainly in the Danube basin.
How big does the Common carp get?
The Common carp grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 31 cm.
Is the Common carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Common carp is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common carp edible?
Yes, the Common carp is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common carp and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cyprinus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Common carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.