New Jersey Scuba Diving

Cyprinus carpio

Size
to 36"
( record over 6 ft )

Description
A heavy-bodied, laterally compressed minnow with a long dorsal fin and arched back. The first ray of the dorsal and anal fins is a stout, serrated spine. The small triangular head tapers to a blunt snout. The small, protrusible mouth contains no teeth and is located below the snout. There are two pairs of barbels on the upper jaw. Body color is brassy green on top grading to bronze or gold on sides. The belly is yellowish-white. Fins typically are yellow, orange, golden, or light olive in color. The wild type of common carp is completely covered with large, round scales. Mirror carp has a few very large scales scattered over the body and leather carp are virtually scaleless.

More: Carp ...