How does it look?

Crucian carp is a medium to large freshwater fish. In Latvia, the largest individuals can reach a length of 33 cm. Crucian carp has a tall and laterally compressed body. Its mouth is directed forward or slightly upward. Unlike the common carp, the crucian carp lacks barbels near its mouth. The back is greenish-brown, while the sides and belly are golden or yellowish-brown. The last unbranched ray of the dorsal and anal fins has small serrations. Crucian carp has large scales.

Where does it live?

Crucian carp in Latvian freshwater is one of the most common fish species. It is found in many rivers and most lakes and ponds. Crucian carp inhabits shallow water bodies rich in vegetation, such as lakes, ponds, slow-flowing rivers, and stagnant streams. In Latvia, crucian carp is the most resilient fish against oxygen deficiency, allowing it to successfully survive long winters.

What does it eat?

Crucian carp is an omnivorous fish, feeding almost throughout the day, but primarily at night. Its diet includes plankton, invertebrates, various plants, and detritus (detritus forms from plant cell fragments, shells, animal skeletal parts, and various secretions).

Interesting and important facts

Crucian carp reaches reproductive maturity at the age of 2-7 years, reaching lengths of 11-23 cm. They spawn in June and July, producing a fertility of 0.7 to 513 thousand eggs. The crucian carp hybrids with carp and silver crucian carp. Anglers do not favor the crucian carp, but it is often used as bait fish.

Information sources: Wikipedia

Image author: Anastasija Ovsepjana