Crucian Carp

Scientific Name of the Crucian Carp: Carassius carassius
Maximum Weight: 7lb (3.2kg)
Maximum Length: 18in (46cm)
Average Size Caught: 8oz (226g)
Life Span: 15 Years
Etymology: Latinization of , karass, karausche, European (Ref. 45335).
Current Genus: Carassius Nilsson 1832

Crucian Carp, (Carassius carassiu) - hardy and unfussy

The crucian carp is a very hardy fish able to survive in the smallest of pools they thrive in very weedy muddy water with little oxygen. Conditions that most other fishes could not survive in. Crucian Carp are not fussy eaters except when they are very young at this time they feed only on planktonic crustaceans. When they are fully-grown they will eat almost anything in the water such as insect larvae, crustaceans and a lot of water plants. The Crucian is mostly a bottom feeder but can also be found feeding at other levels and, on very sunny days, will take food from the surface. They usually swim in shoals of fish of around the same age and weight.

These hardy fish spawn mainly on water plants around May-June. The eggs hatch within a week but the fish stay attached to the plants for two to three days to feed on the yolk sack before swimming off.

They usually have a very rounded body with a covering of small scales in an even pattern. Colour can vary from gold to bronze. With rounded fins and a cheeky face, this species is a favorite among youngsters fishing on smaller ponds, although many of us 'oldsters' still enjoy catching them.

Although its origins are unsure, it is believed to have been present in the UK since the 18th century, when it was imported from Germany. Its original 'roots' are probably found in the rivers feeding the North, Baltic and Black Seas.

It is an extremely adaptable fish, thriving in waters which would prove fatal to most other species. It is amongst the smallest of the family, and will sometimes interbreed with Gold Fish and Common Carp. The Common hybrids for some reason unknown to me are mostly males. Please feel free to Email me if you know the answer to this.

According to fish geneticists at Hull University, extensive hybridisation has already taken place, and their studies of DNA show that the genetic make up of a significant number have already been damaged as a result of Goldfish interbeeding. Sadly, these offspring are quite capable of out-competing their non-hybridised relatives and are still able to breed back into the pure stock.

The most common baits to catch them on are Maggots, Casters, Luncheon Meat and SweetCorn, they are best fished using light tackle.

Crucian Carp and other UK Records
Coarse Fish Records UK

Crucian Carp at Yahoo
Information on the Pike - the largest predatory fish found in hte UK

Crucian Carp at DMOZ
Information on The Perch - watch out for the spiny fin.

Common Bream
Common Bream Coarse fish