Fin's Fish Guide
The Taiwan shoveljaw carp (Onychostoma barbatulum) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The Taiwan shoveljaw carp is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from East Asia. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with an inferior mouth with a hardened, scraping lower jaw with which it scrapes the growth layer from stones. It inhabits clear, fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers with a rocky bottom. As a bottom grazer it feeds on algae, diatoms, aufwuchs and small invertebrates. It is a valued local food fish. Owing to a lack of data the species is regarded as data deficient. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Taiwan shoveljaw carp?
The Taiwan shoveljaw carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Hardened, scraping lower jaw for scraping biofilm off stones; mountain stream fish.
Where does the Taiwan shoveljaw carp live?
The Taiwan shoveljaw carp lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; clear fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers.
How big does the Taiwan shoveljaw carp get?
The Taiwan shoveljaw carp grows to a maximum of about 23 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Taiwan shoveljaw carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Taiwan shoveljaw carp is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Taiwan shoveljaw carp edible?
Yes, the Taiwan shoveljaw 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 Onychostoma
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Taiwan shoveljaw carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Taiwan shoveljaw carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.