Ctenopharyngodon Idella

Datasheet

General Description

The Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella) is a peaceful species that usually does not prey on anything larger than a few centimeters in length. It has an olive to brassy green dorsal coloration and a silver-white ventral side. The species has a cylindrical body shape with serrated and laterally compressed pharyngeal teeth, typically arranged in two rows.

Aquarium Setup

To maintain Grass Carp in an aquarium, a large tank with a minimum capacity of 15000 liters is necessary. Providing a robust filtration system and conducting weekly water changes of 50-70% tank volume is essential. The setup should have no special requirements other than the need to consider that any aquatic plants introduced are likely to be consumed rapidly. For detailed water conditions requirements, refer to the provided table.

Behaviour

This species, despite being herbivorous, is known to be primarily peaceful and avoid larger prey.

Feeding and Diet

Grass Carp are primarily herbivorous and should primarily be offered cultivated duckweed, fresh fruits, and vegetables. They consume considerable quantities of these foods, while wild specimens are also known to feed on organic detritus, aquatic insects, and other invertebrates.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Grass Carp are highly fecund, with females capable of producing over a million eggs during the breeding season. Gravid females are visibly deeper-bodied compared to males of the same age.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the Amur River system in eastern Russia and northeastern China, Grass Carp has been widely introduced globally for aquaculture and as a biological vegetation controller in various territories. It has been observed causing significant environmental damage in natural environments in regions where it has been introduced. The species favors lowland, slow-moving sections of large rivers, as well as lakes and reservoirs abundant in vegetation with shallow water depth.