Distribution
The common carp is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to every part of the world except the poles. Wild stocks are only present naturally in rivers draining to the Black, Caspian and Aral Sea. A reophilic wild population in the Danube is assumed to be the origin of the European species; this population is now under threat.
Morphology/Biological Features
Body elongated and somewhat compressed. Lips thick. Two pairs of barbels at angle of mouth, shorter ones on the upper lip. Dorsal fin base long with 17-22 branched rays and a strong, toothed spine in front; dorsal fin outline concave anteriorly. Anal fin with 6-7 soft rays; posterior edge of 3rd dorsal and anal fin spines with sharp spinules. Lateral line with 32 to 38 scales. Pharyngeal teeth 5:5, teeth with flattened crowns. Colour variable, wild carp are brownish-green on the back and upper sides, shading to golden yellow ventrally. The fins are dusky, ventrally with a reddish tinge. Golden carp are bred for ornamental purposes.