Bighead Carp

(Hypophthalmichthys nobilis)

Physical Description 

Bighead Carp is a deep-bodied fish with a large toothless mouth and very large head. Their eyes are located forward and low on the head, well below the axis of the body. Coloration is dark gray above and cream-coloured below with dark gray to black irregular blotches on the back and sides. Gill rakers are long, comb-like and close-set allowing the carp to strain planktonic organisms from the water for food. They have also been known to hybridize (cross-breed) with Silver Carp and produce viable, reproductive offspring.

Preferred Habitat 

Spawning can occur in many water bodies including moderate to large rivers and lakes with areas of slow current and depths of more than 2 metres. They are active in cold water and begin to feed at temperatures above 2-4⁰C, preferring temperatures of 4-26⁰C. Bighead carp are extremely hardy and can adapt to many temperate freshwater environments.

Diet 

Although the name H. nobilis implies nobility, these fish are anything but; they are voracious eaters and consume a wide range of zooplankton, detritus and small invertebrates, outcompeting native species for food. Bighead Carp lack a true stomach which requires them to feed almost continuously.

Size 

Bighead Carp mature in 2-3 years commonly weighing up to 18 kg, but can reach 40 kg (rare)

Illustration © Joseph Tomelleri

Fast Facts: 

Origin: Large rivers and lakes in eastern China and far eastern Russia. 

Diet: Zooplankton, detritus and small invertebrates

Behaviour: Exhibit schooling behaviour 

Life Span: 16+ years

Size:  Maximum: 40 kg, 1.5 metres 

Did You Know? 

• Extremely hardy and can adapt to many temperate freshwater environments.
• Lack a true stomach which requires them to feed almost continuously.
  

Size Relative to 6 ft Man: