Carp - Black
(Mylopharyngodon piceus)
*Not detected in Michigan*
WATCH LIST - PROHIBITED IN MICHIGAN
Report this species to:
Lucas Nathan, DNR Fisheries Division, nathanl@michigan.gov 517-599-9323
If possible, please take one or more photos of the invasive species you are reporting. Also make note of the location, date and time of the observation. This will aid in verification of your report. You may be asked to provide your name and contact information if follow-up is needed.
- Or - use the invasive (Asian) carp reporting form
- Or - use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool
- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - http://www.misin.msu.edu/tools/apps/#home
Identification:
- Large bodied‐can reach 6 feet in length and 150 pounds
- Elongated, laterally compressed body
- Blackish‐brown scales grading to bluish gray to almost white belly
- Pointed head with a flattened anterior (front) portion
- Young individuals look very similar to grass carp (another invasive species) but have pharyngeal teeth
Illustration by Joseph R. Tomelleri
U.S. Geological Survey, Bugwood.org
A threat to the Great Lakes!
Black carp feed on mollusks and snails, consuming up to 20% of their body weight per day.
If they become established in the Great Lakes, black carp could pose a major threat to Michigan’s native mussel populations, many of which are endangered, threatened, of special concern, or in need of conservation.
Black carp would compete with mollusk-eating native fish, including freshwater drum, redhorse species and the state threatened lake sturgeon, for limited food resources.
Habitat: Large rivers and lakes but require large rivers for reproduction (water current keeps their eggs from sinking to the bottom).
Diet: Their diet consists primarily of mussels and snails, but also includes freshwater shrimp, crayfish, and insects.
Native Range: China, part of eastern Russia, possibly northern Vietnam.
U.S. Distribution: Reported in Arkansas, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri.
Potential Means of Introduction: Illinois River or flood connections with Great Lakes waters.
Other Names: Chinese black carp, black amur, Chinese roach, snail carp, black Chinese roach
MORE INFORMATION:
How to identify black carp vs. silver carp - Video
Black Carp Invasive Species Alert (printable PDF)