Fin's Fish Guide
The Mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio var. specularis) 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 mirror carp is a farmed form of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) with only part of its scales: large, shiny mirror scales lie irregularly scattered, often along the dorsal fin, the tail root and the lateral line, while the rest of the body is bare. The pattern is unique to each fish, so carp anglers recognise well-known mirrors and sometimes give them names. The form arose in German fish ponds and is inherited recessively. Mirror carp were selected for fast growth and are among the heaviest carp caught in the Netherlands and Belgium; the Belgian record is a mirror carp of 40 kilos.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mirror carp?
The Mirror carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Large, irregularly scattered mirror scales (often along the dorsal fin, tail root and lateral line) on otherwise bare skin; the scale pattern is unique to each fish.
Where does the Mirror carp live?
The Mirror 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 Mirror carp get?
The Mirror carp grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 31 cm.
Is the Mirror carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Mirror carp is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mirror carp edible?
Yes, the Mirror carp is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Mirror 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 Mirror carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mirror carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone