Fin's Fish Guide
The Leather carp (Cyprinus carpio var. nudus) 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 leather carp, also called nude carp, is the almost scaleless form of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Its thick, leathery skin is bare, apart from at most a few scales near the dorsal fin or tail root. It is not a mirror carp without scales: the form arises from a different genetic combination, with the same N allele that also produces the linear carp and lowers viability. Leather carp are the rarest carp form in Dutch waters. Otherwise the leather carp lives like any carp: a bottom-rooting omnivore of still and slow-flowing, nutrient-rich water that can reach about 120 cm.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leather carp?
The Leather carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Almost scaleless with a thick, leathery skin; at most a few scales near the dorsal fin or tail root.
Where does the Leather carp live?
The Leather 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 Leather carp get?
The Leather carp grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 31 cm.
Is the Leather carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Leather carp is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Leather carp edible?
Yes, the Leather carp is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Leather 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 Leather carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leather carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone