pdf version - South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks

MINNOW (family Cyprinidae)
Common Carp
Cyprinus carpio
Quick key characteristics: The common carp is found in cool- and warmwater
habitats. It has large, brassy or golden scales, an elongated dorsal fi n
with a stout, serrated spine as well as a stout, serrated spine on the anal fi n.
Superfi cially, it has a forward-facing mouth and pointed snout, but when
protruded the mouth is downward-facing. It has a pair of barbels that are
readily visible in the corner of the mouth and its body is taller than wide.
Similar species in South Dakota: goldfi sh, buffalos, carpsuckers
Identifi cation: The combination of (1) barbels, (2) stout, serrated dorsal and
anal fi n spines, and (3) highly protrusible mouth distinguishes common carp
from similar South Dakota fi shes.
Range: The common carp is native to Asia and has been introduced
throughout the world as a food fi sh. It is widespread in South Dakota.
Items of interest:
• Highly tolerant of harsh and degraded environments
• Successful in most freshwater habitats except cold-water streams and
fl ashy, sand-bed rivers
• Feeds on bottom ooze and associated algae and invertebrates
• Can provide exciting angling on light tackle
• Commonly exceed 25 in. and may
exceed 50 lbs.
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