Grass Carp - Ctenopharyngoden idella

The grass carp ( Ctenopharyngodon idella ) is one of the largest members of the minnow family. Grass Carp are native to rivers in China and the Soviet Union. They have now been widely introduced outside of their historic range both legally and illegally. Grass carp commonly reach weight of over 50 pounds.

Grass carp begin feeding on microscopic animals when they are very young, but after they are 3 inches long they are virtually 100% vegetarian. Sterile grass carp are often used as a method of weed control.