Bighead Carp

Photo by: Matthew R. Thomas

Identification: Bighead and Silver carps, referred to collectively as invasive carps, are distinguished from other fishes by having the eye below the midline of the head. Silver Carp differ from Bighead Carp by having a keel extending from the anus to the origin of the pectoral fins; the keel ends between the pelvic fins in Bighead Carp. Silver Carp also lack the irregular gray-black blotches on the sides of the body, which are present in Bighead Carp. Silver Carp are known for their jumping behavior, which is rarely seen in Bighead Carp. Both species can grow up to 4 feet and weigh over 75 pounds, but adults more commonly range from 10 to 20 pounds.

Distribution and Habitat: Introduced in the early 1970s to reduce phytoplankton in aquaculture ponds, both Bighead and Silver carps have since escaped and are established in open-water habitats of large rivers and reservoirs in the Mississippi River basin.