Scientific Name
Hypophthalmichthys molotrix
Other Names
Speckled silver carp, Asian carp, Jumping carp
Description
Silver carp are a large, deep-bodied carp with a large eye located low on the head near the tip of the jaw. The back and upper sides are olive green, becoming silvery on the sides and abdomen. As adults, silver carp are most often confused with bighead carp. Silver carp may reach weights of 40 to 60 pounds.
Habits and Habitat
Similar to bighead carp, silver carp are native to Asia and were first imported into aquaculture facilities to improve water quality. They feed primarily on phytoplankton, small zooplankton, and other suspended organic matter.
State Record
The current record of 15 pounds was caught by Vernard Williams in 2011.
Fishing Fact
Silver carp are rarely caught using hook and line, but are commonly reported by commercial fishers. Silver carp are best known for its ability to leap up to 10 feet out of the water when disturbed by boat engine noise, and may potentially cause human injury. The environmental impacts of these fish are unknown but they could adversely impact many native species of fish due to competition for food. The young of both bighead and silver carp look similar to gizzard and threadfin shad, so both bighead and silver carp could be spread through the release of live bait.