bighead

Hypophthalmichthys nobilis

One Hundred Forty Six Centimeters Carp of North American Waters

Temperate
Globally widespread
East Asia
Fusiform
Large
Temperate fish

The bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) 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.

Class: Teleosts
Order: Minnows, Carps, and Loaches
Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Hypophthalmichthys
Maximum length: 146 cm
Body shape: fusiform
Distribution: Asia: China. Introduced to numerous countries and has achieved a near global distribution. However, its breeding requirements are very specialized and stocks are maintained by artificial reproduction or continuous importation. Several countries report adverse ecological impact after introduction (Ref. 1739 ). Often confused with Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (Ref. 59043 ).
Conservation status: DDData Deficient

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