Typically, color varies from brassy green or yellow, to golden brown, or even silvery. The belly is usually yellowish-white. The dorsal fin with 17-21 rays, and the anal fin both have a heavy toothed spine. Biology Carp were originally native to Asia. Several hundred years ago they were brought to Europe as a food fish, and in the late 1800's they were introduced to North American where they have become nearly ubiquitous.
Adults spawn in very shallow water in the spring.
Eggs are indiscriminately released and hatch in about a week. Fry are planktivorous. Adults are primarily benthic and omnivorous feeding on both plant and animal material. Distribution Common carp are native to temperate portions of Europe and Asia. They were first introduced into North America in 1877.