Common Carp
Image: John Koehn, Charles Todd, Leigh Thwaites, Ivor Stuart, Brenton Zampatti, Qifeng Ye, Anthony Conallin, Lauren Dodd and Kasey Stamation (CC BY 3.0)
NameCommon Carp
Scientific NameCyprinus carpio
Common NamesCommon Carp, European Carp, Mirror Carp, Leather Carp
FamilyCyprinidae
OriginEurope, Asia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)250
Max Size (Inches)30
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)65-78
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarge Catfish, Other large Cyprinids (in pond settings), Large Cichlids (in very large, specialized setups)
Description
The Common Carp is a large, robust freshwater fish native to Europe and Asia, widely introduced globally. Known for its adaptability and bottom-feeding behavior, it can grow to a significant size, making it primarily suitable for large ponds rather than typical home aquariums. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant matter, insects, and crustaceans.
