How to Identify Bighead Carp

To identify Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-gray to olive-green on the back, fading to silvery-white on the belly. Irregular dark blotches or spots are often present on the sides and back.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Large, scaleless head, making up about one-quarter to one-third of the body length., Eyes are set low on the head, below the midline of the body., A prominent keel (sharp ridge) extends from the anal fin to the pelvic fins., Small, cycloid scales covering the body, but absent on the head., Large, upturned mouth without barbels.

Dorsal fin

Single, short dorsal fin with 3 unbranched and 7-8 branched rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively long, reaching or nearly reaching the pelvic fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are abdominal. No adipose fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Head Size

   The most distinguishing feature is its disproportionately large head, which is broad and lacks scales.

2. 2

   Eye Position

   The eyes are set noticeably low on the head, below the midline of the body.

3. 3

   Keel

   Presence of a sharp, fleshy keel (ridge) on the belly that extends from the anal fin forward to the pelvic fins.

4. 4

   Coloration and Markings

   Silvery body with irregular dark blotches or spots on the sides and back, which can vary in intensity.

5. 5

   Mouth

   Large, upturned mouth without barbels, indicative of its filter-feeding habit.

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