Fin's Fish Guide
The Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a freshwater 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. Native to the Black, Caspian and Aral Sea basins, the carp has been introduced worldwide and has lived in the Netherlands since the Middle Ages. Centuries of farming produced forms that differ only in their scales: the scale, mirror, linear and leather carp, each with its own page in the app. The slender, fully scaled wild carp survives mainly in polder waters north and west of Amsterdam. While foraging the carp stirs up the bottom, eating bottom animals and plant material.
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; scalation differs per form, from fully scaled (scale carp, wild carp) to almost scaleless (leather carp).
Where does the Common carp live?
The Common carp lives in fresh 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.
Or scan with your phone