Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese crucian carp (Carassius cuvieri) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 35 cm.
East Asia, originally Lake Biwa and its surroundings in Japan, in lakes, ponds and slow-flowing water with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The Japanese crucian carp (gengoro-buna) is a deep, strongly compressed carp of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 35 cm. Unlike the common crucian carp it has a deeper body, a long dorsal fin and many fine gill rakers, with which it filters animal and plant plankton from the water as a filter feeder. The species originally comes from Lake Biwa and its surroundings in Japan and lives in lakes, ponds and slow water with abundant plants; it has been widely stocked within and beyond Japan. The cultivated form (herabuna) is one of the most popular target species of Japanese freshwater angling, fished with fine dough bait. It is also a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese crucian carp?
The Japanese crucian carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep-bodied, laterally flattened carp with a long dorsal fin and many fine gill rakers; a filter feeder that feeds on plankton.
Where does the Japanese crucian carp live?
The Japanese crucian carp lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. East Asia, originally Lake Biwa and its surroundings in Japan, in lakes, ponds and slow-flowing water with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the Japanese crucian carp get?
The Japanese crucian carp grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Japanese crucian carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese crucian carp is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese crucian carp edible?
Yes, the Japanese crucian carp is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
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Status & sources
Same genus Carassius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese crucian carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese crucian carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.