carp


The carp, a widespread freshwater fish, plays a major role both ecologically and economically. This fact sheet provides a concise overview of the carp's size, weight, lifestyle, and habitat, emphasizing the importance of its conservation and sustainable use in waters.

carp Products

Profile: carp

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Bony fishes (Actinopterygii)
    • Order: Cypriniformes
    • Family: Carp fishes (Cyprinidae)
    • Genus: Cyprinus
    • Species: C. carpio (carp)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: 40-80 cm, can reach over 1 m in exceptional cases
    • Weight: 2-15 kg, in extreme cases up to 30 kg
    • Special features: Scale-covered body, two barbels on the mouth, varying color from golden brown to greenish-grey, broad dorsal fin

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, Asia
    • Habitat: Freshwater bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, rivers and slow-flowing canals; prefers still or gently flowing, plant-rich waters

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Omnivore
    • Typical food: aquatic plants, insects, worms, snails, small crustaceans and organic detritus

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Spawning season: Spring to early summer (approx. 18–22°C water temperature)
    • Eggs: 100,000-300,000 eggs per female
    • Lifestyle: Sociable, often found in schools; prefers calm waters; can move to great depths to exploit food sources

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: 20-30 years, in exceptional cases up to 50 years
    • Endangered status: Not endangered, but locally threatened by overfishing, water pollution and habitat changes
    • Protective measures: species-appropriate fish farming, water protection, preservation of natural spawning areas