Knowra Common carp Common carp The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a large freshwater fish native to Eurasia and widely introduced and farmed worldwide. It is adaptable, bottom-feeding, and valued as food, though it can disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
Cyprinidae : A large family of freshwater fishes that includes carps, minnows, and barbs. The common carp belongs to this family, whose members share toothless jaws and pharyngeal teeth.
Benthic feeding : A feeding strategy focused on organisms and materials found on or within aquatic sediments. Carp sift bottom sediments for invertebrates, plant matter, and other food.
Aquaculture : The cultivation of aquatic organisms for food and other uses. Common carp are among the most widely farmed freshwater fishes.
Invasive species : An introduced organism whose establishment and spread cause ecological, economic, or other harm. Common carp are invasive in several regions beyond their native Eurasian range.
Cyprinus : A genus of large Eurasian freshwater fishes that includes the common carp. The common carp is the genus’s best-known species.
Osmoregulation : The regulation of water and dissolved ions inside an organism. Carp tolerate a broad range of water conditions by regulating internal salt and water balance.
Koi : Ornamental varieties of common carp selectively bred for color and pattern. Koi are domesticated common carp, developed for ornamental ponds and display.
Bioturbation : The disturbance and mixing of sediments by living organisms. Carp stir bottom sediments while feeding, increasing turbidity and resuspending nutrients.
Pharyngeal teeth : Teeth located on bones in the throat, used by many fishes to crush or process food. Common carp use these teeth to grind food against a hard pad in the throat.
Fish spawning : The release of eggs and sperm by fish for external fertilization. Carp spawn in shallow, vegetated water, where adhesive eggs attach to plants.
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