Carp

Lore & Background

Carp have long been an important food fish to humans. Several species such as the various goldfish breeds and the domesticated common carp variety known as koi have been popular ornamental fishes. As a result, carp have been introduced to various locations, though with mixed results. Several species of carp are considered invasive species in the United States, and worldwide large sums of money are spent on carp control. At least some species of carp are able to survive for months with practically no oxygen by metabolizing glycogen to form lactic acid which is then converted into ethanol and carbon dioxide, which diffuses into the surrounding water through the gills. The UK has a thriving carp angling market. In the United States, carp are classified as a rough fish and a damaging naturalized exotic species, but with sporting qualities; many states' departments of natural resources are beginning to view the carp as an angling fish instead of a maligned pest. Various species of carp have been domesticated and reared as food fish across Europe and Asia for thousands of years. Aquaculture has been pursued in China for at least 2,400 years. The common carp is originally from Central Europe. Several carp species (collectively known as Asian carp) were domesticated in East Asia. Carp that are originally from South Asia are known as Indian carp. Their hardiness and adaptability have allowed domesticated species to be propagated all around the world.

Reader's Guide

Carp hold a dual significance: they are a cornerstone of aquaculture and ornamental fishkeeping in Eurasia, yet are widely regarded as invasive pests in Africa, Australia, and most of the United States. Their biological adaptability—including the ability to survive months without oxygen—has facilitated their spread and resilience. In Europe, carp are a prized sport fish, with a thriving angling culture and specialized publications. In the United States, despite a poor reputation, carp are increasingly promoted as game fish by organizations such as the American Carp Society. Carp have been domesticated for thousands of years, with selective breeding programs improving growth, shape, and disease resistance. The Jian carp, developed in China in the late 1990s, now accounts for over 50% of China's carp aquaculture production. Ornamental varieties like goldfish and koi have been selectively bred for color and form for centuries. The family Cyprinidae is often known as the carp family, and most cypriniformes have scales and teeth on the inferior pharyngeal bones. Tribolodon is the only cyprinid genus that tolerates salt water. Carp remain a major food source in Asia, where their farming volume surpasses that of intensively sea-farmed species like salmon and tuna.

Did You Know?

• The term carp is a generic common name for numerous species of freshwater fish from the family Cyprinidae.
• At least some species of carp can survive for months with practically no oxygen by converting glycogen to ethanol and carbon dioxide.
• The common carp is native to both Eastern Europe and Western Asia, sometimes called a 'Eurasian' carp.
• Goldfish were first bred for color in China over a thousand years ago.