Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Originally from the large rivers of East Asia (China and the Russian Far East).
Description
The silver carp is a large cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 120 cm. The laterally compressed, silvery body has low-set eyes and an upturned mouth. It is characterised by a fine gill filter of fused gill rakers, with which the fish strains phytoplankton from the water. The species is native to the great rivers of East Asia but has been introduced worldwide for aquaculture and algal-bloom control. In North America and parts of Europe it is invasive and displaces native fish. It is notorious for leaping en masse high out of the water at engine noise. Because of its decline in the native range the species is assessed as Near Threatened.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver carp?
The Silver carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, silver-coloured carp with low-set eyes and a gill filter of fused gill arches for sieving plankton; leaps high out of the water when disturbed.
Where does the Silver carp live?
The Silver carp lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Originally from the large rivers of East Asia (China and the Russian Far East).
How big does the Silver carp get?
The Silver carp grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Silver carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver carp is harmless to humans. Harmless, but large fish leap high out of the water at engine noise and can strike boaters; stay alert in infested waters.
Is the Silver carp edible?
Yes, the Silver carp is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Silver 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 Hypophthalmichthys
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone