A massive invasive carp introduced for aquaculture; escaped into Mississippi system. Filter-feeds on plankton, devastating native fish.

Also called: Bighead Carp, Noble Carp

Native status: Non-native (Asia); invasive throughout Mississippi system

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 60–110 cm; record 150 cm
Weight5–30 kg; record 50 kg
LifespanWild 15–20 years
OrderCypriniformes
FamilyCyprinidae

§ Encyclopedia

The bighead carp is a species of cyprinid freshwater fish native to East Asia, and is one of several Asian carps introduced into North America. It is one of the most intensively exploited fishes in fish farming, with an annual worldwide production of over three million tonnes in 2013, principally from China. They are omnivores, consuming both algae and zooplankton.

Source: Wikipedia — Bighead carp Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive carp with relatively large head; small low-set eyes; smooth scales; no spines.

Similar species. Silver Carp (jumps when boats approach; similar size). Grass Carp (no carp scales). Common Carp (barbels; different shape).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Filter-feeds zooplankton, phytoplankton.

Behavior. Native to East Asia; introduced to US Southeast in 1970s for aquaculture; escaped into wild via flooding. Now well-established in Mississippi-Missouri-Ohio drainages. Combined with Silver Carp, the two "Asian carps" are causing major ecological damage by stripping plankton from the food web. Vigorous control efforts include strategic harvest, electric barriers (most famously the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal barriers protecting Lake Michigan).

§ Range

Native to Asia; invasive in Mississippi River system

§ Habitat

Rivers, reservoirs

§ Threats

In Mississippi system: they're the threat to native fish.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the bighead carp (invasive) is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support carp control programs. Buy commercial carp products. Report wild populations.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species
  • USFWS Asian Carp Program
  • Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee