Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a popular species for aquaponics due to its hardiness, fast growth rate, and adaptability to various environmental conditions. It’s widely cultivated for food and is known for its ability to thrive in different aquaculture systems[1].
Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Origin and native environment: Native to Europe and Asia, particularly in the Black, Caspian, and Aral Sea basins[1].
- Natural behavior in the wild: Omnivorous, bottom-feeding fish that form schools[1].
- Temperament: Generally docile but can be territorial during breeding[1].
- Compatibility: Can be kept with other non-aggressive fish species[1].
Water Requirements
- Temperature Range: 3°C – 35°C (37.4°F – 95°F), optimal growth at 23°C – 30°C (73.4°F – 86°F)[1].
- pH Level: 6.5 – 9.0, optimal range 7.0 – 7.5[1].
- Water hardness: Tolerant of a wide range, prefers moderately hard water[1].
- Oxygen Levels: Minimum 3-4 mg/L, optimal >5 mg/L[1].
- Ammonia/Nitrate Sensitivity: Tolerant of high nitrate levels, but ammonia should be kept below 0.05 mg/L[1].
Tank or Pond Setup
- Tank/Pond Size Requirements: Minimum 1000 L (264 gallons) per adult fish[1].
- Filtration & Aeration: Requires good filtration and aeration due to high waste production[1].
- Lighting Considerations: Natural light cycles preferred[1].
- Tank Decorations/Substrate: Prefer soft substrate for foraging; provide hiding spots[1].
Feeding Requirements
- Diet: Omnivorous, accepting a wide range of foods including plant matter and small invertebrates[1].
- Feeding Techniques: Feed 2-3 times daily, amount based on 2-3% of body weight[1].
- Supplements: Generally not required if a balanced diet is provided[1].
Growth and Reproduction
- Growth Rate: Can grow up to 60 cm (23.6 inches) in length and 3 kg (6.6 lbs) in weight within 3 years[1].
- Physical Growth Indicators: Gradual increase in size and weight[1].
- Breeding Behavior: Spawn in spring when water temperatures reach 18°C (64.4°F)[1].
- Care of Fry: Fry require special care and protection from predators[1].
Harvesting & Culinary Considerations
- Growth to Harvest: Typically harvested at 1-1.5 kg (2.2-3.3 lbs) after 1-2 years[1].
- Culinary Uses: Versatile fish, can be prepared in various ways including baking, frying, and smoking[1]. Not everyone think of the common carp to be a good eating fish, i’ve never eaten carp my self, so I have no real opinion about this.
Pros and Cons
- Hardy
- Fast-growing
- Adaptable to various conditions[1].
- High waste production
- Potential to uproot plants if not managed properly[1].
- Some say it’s not fit for human consumption; others love it.
Overall Suitability: Suitable for experienced aquaponics practitioners due to their size and waste production[1].
Common Health Issues and Solutions
- Potential Diseases: Susceptible to various bacterial and parasitic infections[1].
- Signs of Health Issues: Abnormal swimming behavior, loss of appetite, visible lesions[1].
- Treatment Recommendations: Maintain good water quality, use appropriate medications when necessary[1].
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Health
- Maintenance Frequency: Regular water quality checks and system maintenance[1].
- System checks: Monitor temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels regularly[1].
- Handling Practices: Handle minimally and with care to reduce stress[1].
- Winter/Summer Care: Ensure proper temperature regulation during extreme seasons[1].
Case Study
In a study conducted by El Rahimi et al. (2021), common carp were successfully co-cultured with different vegetable plants in an aquaponics system. The study found that kale (Ipomoea aquatica) was the most recommended vegetable plant to be co-cultured with common carp in aquaponics[2].
Closing Thoughts
Common carp is a robust species suitable for aquaponics, particularly for those looking to produce food fish. Its adaptability and fast growth rate make it an attractive option, but careful management of waste and system balance is crucial for success.
More fish species for aquaponics
External sources:
[1] U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (2019). Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Ecological Risk Screening Summary. https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Ecological-Risk-Screening-Summary-Common-Carp.pdf
[2] El Rahimi, S. A., Razeky, M. M., Perdana, A. W., & Putra, D. F. (2021). The growth performance of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) co-cultured with different vegetable plants in aquaponics system. Depik, 10, 30-34.
[1] https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Ecological-Risk-Screening-Summary-Common-Carp.pdf
[2] https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/The-growth-performance-of-common-carp-(Cyprinus-in-Rahimi-Razeky/171f82f8040617b00af93e57fe6e2ef9fb44523e
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8901867/
[4] https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/14/23/3870
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0044848617318665
[6] https://www.academia.edu/62809590/The_growth_performance_of_common_carp_Cyprinus_carpio_co_cultured_with_different_vegetable_plants_in_aquaponics_system
[7] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338396573_GROWTH_OF_COMMON_CARP_Cyprinus_carpio_IN_DEVELOPED_AQUAPONIC_SYSTEM
[8] https://jurnal.usk.ac.id/depik/article/view/19467
[9] https://bcsrj.com/ojs/index.php/bcsrj/article/view/1017